Mission furniture is highly collectible.
Mission-style furniture was manufactured during the Arts and Crafts Movement in the United States from 1890 to 1929. Mission, also known as "Craftsman" furniture, was simple and functional in design. Gustav Stickley and the Roycrofters were among the most well-known makers of Mission-style furniture and their pieces are highly collectible today. Because of its simplicity, a Mission-style armoire could find a place in a traditionally decorated bedroom or the living area of a modern loft.
Instructions
1. Research Mission-style furniture. Find out as much as you can about the furniture of the Arts and Crafts Movement. Books on Mission furniture such as "Arts and Crafts Style" by Isabella Anscombe are a good source of information as well as websites like www.artsncrafts.com.
2. Familiarize yourself with the market. Go to antique shops and shows. Look at online sites like eBay and Craigslist to see listings for antique Mission armoires, also known as wardrobes. Check the sale price as well as the original asking price to see what people are willing to pay. Websites that specialize in the sale of Mission furniture, like www.gustavstickley.com, will also give you a good idea of the value of Mission antique furniture.
3. Know what to look for. Examine your antique from all angles, including the bottom, back and inside. Mission furniture was most often finished with dark stains. Armoires, like most Mission furniture, would have been made of oak and simply designed with few, if any, decorative additions. Check to see if all the hardware is intact; that the drawer pulls and knobs are authentic and in working order. Authentic hardware was most likely hammered brass and should have a patina that only comes with age and use. The most valuable antique Mission pieces bear maker's marks, stamps or labels indicating who made them.
4. Hire an appraiser. The best way to place a value on your antique Mission armoire is to have an expert appraise it. You can find an appraiser by talking with antique sellers, auctioneers and others who share your interest in Mission-style furniture.
Tags: Mission furniture, Mission-style furniture, antique Mission, Arts Crafts, also known, Arts Crafts Movement, Crafts Movement