How do I identify a genuine period settle?

Examine the construction of the back panels and the wear patterns on the seat and armrests. Genuine early examples display pegged joints, hand-adzed boards and natural surface patination built up over generations of use. Check for consistency in the timber species used throughout the frame, as later repairs or alterations often mix replacement pine or modern fixings with older oak.

Can I use antique dining chairs daily?

Solid mahogany and oak dining chairs from the eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries were built for heavy daily use and remain remarkably sturdy. Ensure that the frame joints are secure and consult a conservator if the original glue has dried out. Upholstered seats may require modern webbing or reinforcement to support regular sitting without placing undue strain on the historic wooden rails.

What is the difference between a side chair and an armchair?

Side chairs are built without armrests, designed primarily to be tucked neatly around a dining table or placed against a wall. Armchairs feature supportive elbow rests and are proportioned for individual comfort in libraries, parlours or bedrooms. In many historic dining sets, a pair of matching armchairs accompanied a larger number of armless side chairs at the head and foot of the table.

How do I care for polished mahogany and oak furniture?

Maintain the timber by dusting regularly with a soft, dry cloth and applying natural beeswax sparingly to preserve the surface sheen. Avoid placing antique seating near direct heat sources or in strong sunlight, which can dry out the wood and fade old polishes. Protect finished surfaces from moisture and sharp impacts to safeguard the original patination.