How do I date a mahogany and satinwood cabinet?

Examine the construction methods visible inside the drawers and carcass, noting whether machine-cut or hand-cut dovetails are present. The secondary woods and the style of the satinwood inlay also point toward either the Georgian period or the later Sheraton Revival. Hardware such as brass handles and hinges offer further clues, as do lock types and backboards. Edwardian pieces often exhibit lighter internal framing and machine-finished components compared to eighteenth-century originals.

Where should I place a display cabinet?

Position your display cabinet away from direct sunlight and radiators to protect fragile wood veneers and antique glass from thermal shock. Drawing rooms, studies and dining areas suit their proportions, providing a secure space for porcelain and glassware. Ensure the floor is level so that doors hang true and close evenly without straining the hinges. Corner cabinets make efficient use of difficult angles in smaller reception rooms.

How do I care for satinwood veneer?

Dust the surfaces regularly with a soft, dry cloth to prevent abrasive particles from accumulating on the polished finish. Avoid silicone-based polishes, opting instead for a microcrystalline wax sparingly applied to nourish the timber. Maintain stable humidity levels in the room to prevent the satinwood and mahogany veneers from shrinking, expanding or lifting away from the carcass.

What is the difference between George III and Sheraton Revival?

George III furniture dates from the second half of the eighteenth century and represents original neoclassical craftsmanship in solid timbers and fine veneers. These pieces carry the patina of daily use over two centuries. Sheraton Revival pieces date from the late Victorian and Edwardian eras, reviving those earlier eighteenth-century designs. They often employ machine assistance alongside hand inlay, utilising bright satinwood and painted floral motifs.