A useful identification names the object, explains the evidence, separates original from altered, and states uncertainty honestly.
- Function and object type
- Dimensions and proportions
- Primary and secondary materials
- Construction and tool marks
- Hardware, fasteners, seams, joints, and attachments
- Surface, decoration, wear, and oxidation
- Labels, brands, signatures, inscriptions, numbers, and ownership marks
- Damage, repair, replacement, refinishing, and restoration
- Provenance and documentary context
Describe before searching
Write a neutral description without a maker, region, or date. This prevents a familiar label, seller claim, family story, or visual resemblance from controlling the research.
Read the construction system
One old nail, hand-planed board, worn finish, or dovetail cannot date a complete object. Components can be reused, replaced, married, repaired, or deliberately distressed. Ask whether all major evidence belongs to the same construction episode.
Use marks carefully
Photograph the mark straight-on, measure it, transcribe punctuation and spacing exactly, and note where it appears. A mark can identify a maker, retailer, owner, patent, pattern, repairer, importer, or later dealer.
Build a confidence statement
| Wording | Use |
|---|---|
| By | Direct maker evidence and compatible construction. |
| Attributed to | Strong cumulative evidence, but no decisive signature or document. |
| From the school or region of | Regional construction and form without a named maker. |
| In the manner of | Stylistic relationship without a period-maker claim. |
| Later revival or reproduction | Object deliberately follows an earlier style but construction indicates later manufacture. |
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.
Search eBay collector listings