Posted 10 years ago
WendyLady
(1 item)
This bench was purchased at an estate auction in Illinois. So far my research shows that it is "Four Seasons" design registered in England on April 5, 1870. This design was also manufactured and retailed in the 19th century in U.S.
We were able to dismantle the bench for transport - no way could my husband and I lift it whole. This item is bolted together.
The wooden seat show is my own replacement but it came w/three slats of similar size wood that had been painted.
I do not know how to tell if it is original or reproduction. Any help would be appreciated. Thank you
Sorry, because cant help. Just to said...I love it so much!!!
I think the pride of craftsmanship was at a higher level in 1870. There appears to be rough edges that I would not expect to see. Can you check if it is even cast iron? (Use a magnet). Thank you.
T A
There are aluminum reproductions out there, as I suspected:
https://www.charlestongardens.com/products/Four-Seasons-Bench/4100
T A
It is not aluminum - very heavy - and attracts a magnet. It has been faux finished to make it look more rustic probably by previous owner
I see what you mean with the Charleston Gardens bench reproduction except they say theirs is a lightweight aluminum and this is neither lightweight nor aluminum. What other tests might I try to determine its age and/or origin?
Take pictures of the back side where it is fastened together. The back or bottom should have foundry marks if it is original. Foundry marks should be very easy to see but may be difficult to read if there are multiple coats of paint.
Okay, tomorrow in thye daylight I will look for the marks. When you say where it is fastened together do you mean where the arms are bolted to the back?
Any bolts or screws that you assume to be original.
Well they also make repros in cast iron. My issue still is the poor quality of the casting especially if it was made at the pinnacle of cast iron manufacturing. Sorry, but I don't see the 19th century in this piece.
T A
TA - you might very well be right and that is what I am trying to determine. I bought the piece because I like it and not for resale or my retirement fund (hah). I just want to know more of its history. Thanks
Fhrjr2: I have added two more pictures - these showing the back and undercarriage. I could not find any marks which, from my research, I know doesn't necessarily mean anything other than it may never be identified. If you can add anything more I would appreciate it. Thanks
Your photo's did not post for fhr only 2 show up same ones . Originals were always marked . fhr is very good he will solve it but can you see what additional photo;s did not post ? Did you go to edit on your post and add photo's there is room for 4 of them .
Manikin, thanks for letting me know that the pics didn't post. Fhrjr2: The seat boards were originally balted down but we have not done that yet.
Sorry for the typos...my brain and fingers are suffering a disconnect.
I am not seeing any foundry marks and all new hardware in terms of what you show for fasteners. An antique is an antique in it's original unaltered condition. The rework on this is an issue but not a huge one. The lack of a foundry mark is a major issue. In a similar post recently it made the difference of $10,000.00 or $400.00. The poster paid $800.00 so you do the math. Know what you are buying before you lay down cash. I am not being rude I am being honest. Although I am frequently called rude. My wife says I complain too much but she is old.
Well I appreciate your honesty and your bluntness and did not pay anywhere near $800 for my bench. Your wife isn't old - she is antique - and therefore valuable.
Thanks for you help.