Sizing Up Patina

Have you noticed the popularity in the design industry to make the new piece look old? Terms like distressed, weathered finish, and burnished patina grace the description copy feathering the looks-old factor. Almost as good as a sign I saw in Turkey that read Authentic Fake. Then there's the made from reclaimed wood and hardware, like Restoration Hardware is currently running with. I actually prefer this rendition of repro. It feels much more authentic. So what actually are the benefits of buying repro? I can't immediately say price; as I have acquired some bargain antique furnishings over the years. A fabulous turn of the century American cottage dresser for less than 50 bucks - can't beat that price purchasing a repro; dove-tailed drawers and all.

Back to the pros of buying new. Quantity isn't an issue. Shipping is factored into the equation. Convenience, certainly convenience. Also, many reproductions are offered in a few different sizes to accommodate the small, medium and large buyer. One thing that drives me nuts is oversized proportions on repros. Somewhere between draft board to factory mill the delicate proportions get lost. Kind of like Big Mack'n the chair or end table. Did you look at the prototype? Did you see that the legs are too fat for that apron? Don't you see that hardware is way to large for that drawer front? 

I would have to say the best repros are actually made from an authentic antique piece, a model. That is really the point, isn't it? So there is definitely poetic license involved when retailers are referring to a piece that is a called a reproduction. The piece might just be made to look kind-of like something that would have been in existence or just have components that resemble vintage/ antique period traits. 

A huge part of the new assembly line of furniture making is accommodating new technology in the home. Hide the huge TV and hide the computer. That reminds me of the cherry console we had in our living room growing up, concealing the hifi inside. Same concept, just 25 years later. So I guess this is a good thing if you like that kind of thing. To me it screams trying too hard, because we all know it is there; making the room feeling less genuine. 

There is something magical about the feeling of furnishings possessing true age. And in the US the word antique is referring to two centuries, at most. Head east over the pond and the commonness of old and antique is like the air we breathe. That resonates with me most. I'm partial to authentic patina in almost any form; even a mossy covered stone wall or naturally oxidized building. I equate it with strength. Think about the energy, time and effort that went into creating the hardware for the chest below. The craftsman learned his trade, usually starting as an apprentice. Maybe even learned from generations before him; his father or grandfather. Most likely artisans of that time, didn't speak the American language and relied solely on their skill and trade to speak for them. So the blacksmith, bench-made furniture maker, wood turner, finisher and even Mr. millworker who made the raw materials had strong foundations in their fields. How refreshing is that? I think we are starting to see indicators of the resurfacing of craftsmanship. Good craftsmanship.