A disciplined workflow for object type, material, construction, marks, region, period, alterations, and provenance.
Start with a written record
Assign an object number. Photograph the object before cleaning or disassembly. Record measurements, materials, construction, marks, surface, condition, provenance, and every visible alteration.
Separate observation from interpretation
Write what can be seen first. Then list hypotheses about maker, region, period, use, and ownership. Label family stories, dealer statements, and seller descriptions as reported information until documentary or physical evidence supports them.
Use matched references
Compare documented museum examples, scholarly catalogs, maker records, regional databases, auction archives, and marketplace results. A similar silhouette is not enough; construction, dimensions, materials, decoration, marks, and surface should align.
Protect the object
Do not clean, polish, refinish, remove labels, replace hardware, wash textiles, unfold fragile paper, power an old electrical object, or test an unknown finish before identifying the material and risks.
Know when to use a specialist
High-value, unstable, hazardous, culturally sensitive, legally restricted, heavily altered, or scientifically significant objects may require an appraiser, conservator, curator, tribal representative, attorney, auction specialist, or laboratory.
Compare current collector listings
Use listings to study construction, dimensions, maker marks, regional details, repairs, provenance claims, and market supply. Asking prices are research leads, not completed-sale evidence.
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See current Identify An American Antique listings on eBay →Finish the identification before the purchase
The same-looking forms can belong to different decades and makers. The best comparison process narrows the identity of the object first.
- Cross-check shape, surface, material, construction and maker evidence against documented examples.
- Ask sellers for underside and detail photos before purchasing.
- Check the return policy and distinguish restorations from original surface.
Continue your research
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