How do I Find Out What a Piece of Vintage Wall Hanging Is?
- 1). Examine the wall hanging for signatures or markings which might identify its creator. Mass-produced wall hangings are often "tagged" on the inside. Unique pieces are often signed in a corner or at the very edge.
- 2). Identify any themes running through the wall hanging. Look at colors, figures and fabrics, and see if it links to any period of time. If it appears to be telling a story, research the historical event.
- 3). Study the fabric. Look at the colors used, the condition of the fabric and the weaving style. If you know an approximate age, research which fabrics were used by whom in that time. For example, French tapestries were usually made of threads of cotton or wool, but sometimes gold or silk were used.
- 4). Enlist the help of an antiques dealer, or woven specialist. Point out the details you have found, and ask for a valuation.
- 5). Take the piece to an auction house, if possible. Ask for the auctioneers opinion on the wall hanging.
- 6). Compare your findings with that of the antiques dealer and auction house, and see what identification was suggested. Most of the time, specialists will be able to suggest a few possible ideas, which you can research further.
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