Antique Oak Furniture Sometimes Tell A Family's History

Oak furniture is durable, no question about it. It is easy to find pieces which are centuries old and still perfectly functional. Antique oak furniture, just like the oak tree itself is emblematic of strength and longevity. Oak is one of the most durable of natural materials and has been in use for millennia.

It was more likely its ready availability rather than its longevity which first led people to construct furniture of oak, but it s certainly the case that this furniture has lasted. The antique furniture seen today testifies to this. Furniture was a common addition to homes along with major events such as the birth of a child or a marriage beginning in the 17th century. Prior to this, furniture was more commonly seen in the homes of the wealthy.

Antique collectors often find that they can learn much about the history of a family by looking into the history of a long lasting family heirloom such as a piece of antique oak furniture. Owners would often carve or burn their initials or names into a new piece of furniture; as the piece was handed down through the generations, the son or daughter would do the same and so on. The initials or name of the manufacturer were also commonly carved somewhere on this piece.

Different Types of Oak For Different Uses

Red oak is the type which is most commonly used for flooring material and for furniture. Even cheap laminate flooring is typically made with red oak due to its durability and beauty. Even after centuries of dusting and polishing, oak furniture retains its soft feel and acquires a lovely sheen. Cork oak and barrel furniture are also popular; cork oak is often used to make barrels for aging bourbon and other spirits. These barrels are charred before usage, which imparts a special flavor to their contents.

Cork however is rarely mentioned when the topic of antique furniture comes to mind. The cork oak, growing largely on the Iberian Peninsula and around the Mediterranean Sea is also sometimes used for furniture - but is mostly employed in its best known use as wine bottle stoppers.

Of course, when appraising antique furniture more goes into the determination of the value of a given piece than simply being made from oak. The craftsmanship (it makes a big difference whether a piece was made by an apprentice or a master craftsman) and the usability of the piece are equally important considerations.