How do I date a furniture handle?

Dating relies on examining the casting methods for metal or the tool marks left on wood. Earlier periods display hand-filed edges or irregular chisel facets. Matching the fixing mechanism to the age of the drawer timber provides further confirmation of authenticity.

Are original handles important?

Original mounts preserve the historical integrity and visual balance of a piece. Replacements often leave filled holes behind the backplate. Collectors generally prefer retained hardware where the wear matches the surrounding wood.

What timber was used most?

Oak dominates the earlier 17th-century pieces, offering durability and a pronounced grain. Mahogany and walnut appear more frequently from the Georgian period onward. Exotic veneers like burr elm and satinwood were reserved for higher-status items.

How should I clean antique brass handles?

Light dusting and occasional application of microcrystalline wax protect the surface without removing the aged patina. Harsh metal polishes strip the historic oxidation. Keeping the metal dry prevents corrosion around the timber fixings.