About Shaker Furniture
"Shakers" was the nickname given to the followers of the United Society of Believers in Christ's Second Appearing, which branched off from the Quakers. Shakers were self-sufficient in order to stay as far apart from the sinful world as possible. They sold furniture and crafts to make money. This sect produced some of the most sought after American antique furniture today.
Characteristics
Shaker furniture is functional and durable, using simple geometric shapes. It has no decorations or decorative carvings.
Types
The most valuable are pieces made by actual Shakers from the 1800s and not "Shaker style" furniture made by contemporary artists.
Identification
Genuine antique Shaker furniture will look weather beaten, especially if it still has the original paint. Antique wood is lighter in weight than newer wood.
Price
Chairs, pantry boxes, cabinets and baskets can run into thousands of dollars. According to the Journal for Antiques & Collectibles, $63,000 was paid for an authentic basket in 2003.
Considerations
Not all Shaker furniture is worth paying top dollar for, even if it is old. It also has to be in one piece, beautiful and can still be used.
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