How were these panels originally used?

These elements served as structural wall coverings, decorative overmantels, or components within larger ecclesiastical furnishings and church pews. Over time, many were salvaged from historic buildings to be mounted directly onto walls as standalone works of art.

How do I mount a heavy wooden panel?

Mounting requires securing the weight directly into wall studs using appropriate steel brackets fastened to the rear framing. Professional installation ensures the historic timber remains stable and protected against warping over time.

Should I strip painted pine panels?

Historic painted and grain-painted surfaces preserve the working life and age of the timber, making preservation the preferred choice for collectors. Stripping removes these layers of domestic history, exposing raw softwood that lacks the depth of a patinated finish.

How do I distinguish eighteenth and nineteenth century work?

Eighteenth century examples often display hand-sawn board marks and rustic regional joinery associated with country benches and coffers. Nineteenth century pieces frequently lean into revival aesthetics, showing the precision of Victorian Gothic or Neoclassical machine-assisted preparation alongside hand carving.