How were these panels originally used in Tudor homes?

These panels were fitted into wainscot panelling around the walls of wealthy homes to provide insulation and decoration against damp stone. They also formed the structural fronts of storage coffers and the backs of important armchairs. Over centuries, many panels were salvaged from dismantled buildings and mounted individually as decorative artworks for display.

How do I distinguish sixteenth-century panels from later revivals?

Authentic sixteenth-century pieces display tool marks left by hand chisels and dry, dense timber grain accumulated over centuries of exposure. Nineteenth and twentieth-century revivals often show more uniform machine cutting or softer surface wear. Examining the back edges and joinery methods usually reveals the age of the wood and the period of construction.

How should I hang a heavy oak panel on a wall?

Solid oak panels are exceptionally heavy and require secure fixing directly into wall studs or masonry using appropriate metal brackets. Professional installation ensures the weight is evenly distributed without straining the historic timber. Avoid placing panels in areas subject to rapid temperature fluctuations or direct central heating.