Product details

Seller's Notes:An American Empire / Classical “secretary bookcase” (bookcase over drawers), likely country-made c. 1835–1850. The big S-scroll stiles, turned back feet, and glazed doors fit the period. It’s been heavily over-painted (mustard/oxblood, distressed), the knobs are painted, and there are some later add-ons (e.g., the Queen Victoria coin tacked to the side—Victorian, so added long after the piece was built). At least one back foot looks replaced/mismatched, and there are minor age cracks/edge losses. Important: repainting + replaced bits push this out of the “collector” lane and into “decorative / country painted” furniture. Value today (Boston / Northeast market assumptions) • Estate/auction (as-is): $150–$400 • Local private sale (FB/CL, as-is): $300–$700 • Dealer/retail (after cleanup/stabilization, still painted): $900–$1,800 • Insurance replacement (period example, not identical finish): ~$2,000–$3,000 Empire secretaries bring the best money when they’re mahogany-veneered, unpainted, and crisp. Repaint + later ornaments + foot replacements depress value for period collectors, even though it can still look great as decor. If you want to improve the number • Remove the coin and fill the two screw holes; it reads as a novelty. • Tighten structural issues (drawer runners, loose shelves/locks). Function sells. • Decide on finish strategy: • Keep the painted look (fastest to sell locally). Freshen knobs and touch-up scuffs. • Or explore a careful strip/refinish only if you confirm there’s sound veneer/solid wood worth showing. Test in an inconspicuous spot first; a bad strip can lower value further.

Brand: Cape Craftsmen