A Brief Guide to:
COLLECTIBLE STICKLEY FURNITURE

Stickley furniture is a popular style of furniture that originated in the early 1900s. The furniture is named after the company's founder, Gustav Stickley, who was an influential designer and craftsman during the Arts and Crafts movement. The furniture is known for its high-quality craftsmanship, solid construction, and simple, elegant designs. Today, Stickley furniture is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike. In this article, we will take a closer look at Collectible Stickley Furniture and what makes it so special.

What is Stickley Furniture?

Collectible Stickley Furniture refers to pieces of furniture made by the Stickley Furniture Company that are highly valued by collectors. The Stickley Furniture Company was founded in 1900 by Gustav Stickley and his brothers, Albert and Charles. The company produced furniture in the Arts and Crafts style, which was characterized by simple, functional designs, high-quality materials, and handcrafted construction.

The company's furniture was produced in a variety of styles, including Mission, Craftsman, and Prairie, among others. Each style has its own unique features and characteristics, but all Stickley furniture is known for its durability and timeless appeal.

What Makes Stickley Furniture Collectible?

There are several factors that contribute to the collectibility of Stickley furniture. These include:

• Quality: Stickley furniture is made from high-quality materials, such as solid oak and quarter-sawn white oak. The furniture is also constructed using traditional joinery techniques, such as mortise and tenon joints, which ensures its durability and longevity.
• Design: Stickley furniture is known for its simple, elegant designs that emphasize function and form over ornamentation. The furniture is often characterized by clean lines, geometric shapes, and a lack of unnecessary decoration.
• Rarity: Stickley furniture was produced in relatively small quantities, which makes it rare and valuable. Additionally, many pieces were made as custom orders, which further adds to their rarity.
• History: Stickley furniture has a rich history that is intertwined with the Arts and Crafts movement. The furniture was produced during a time when there was a growing appreciation for handcrafted goods and a rejection of mass-produced items.

Types of Stickley Furniture

Stickley furniture comes in many different styles, each with its own unique characteristics. Some of the most popular types of Stickley furniture include:

• Mission: Mission-style Stickley furniture is characterized by its clean lines, simple design, and emphasis on function. The furniture is often made from quarter-sawn white oak and features exposed joinery, which adds to its durability and rustic appeal.
• Craftsman: Craftsman-style Stickley furniture is similar to Mission style but often includes more decorative elements, such as inlaid designs or carved details. The furniture is typically made from oak or cherry wood and features handcrafted joinery.
• Prairie: Prairie-style Stickley furniture is characterized by its horizontal lines, flat surfaces, and emphasis on geometry. The furniture is often made from cherry or mahogany wood and features simple, elegant designs that emphasize form over function.
• Cherry Valley: Cherry Valley-style Stickley furniture is a more recent addition to the Stickley lineup. The furniture is made from cherry wood and features clean lines and simple designs, similar to Mission and Craftsman styles. However, it often incorporates more contemporary elements, such as metal accents or glass inserts.

How to Identify Collectible Stickley Furniture

If you are interested in collecting Stickley furniture, it is important to know how to identify authentic pieces. Here are some tips to help you identify Collectible Stickley Furniture:

• Label: Look for a label on the furniture that identifies it as Stickley. The label should include the company name, logo, and sometimes the model number or style.
• Joinery: Examine the furniture for signs of handcrafted joinery, such as mortise and tenon joints. Stickley furniture is known for its solid construction and attention to detail.
• Wood: Stickley furniture is typically made from high-quality wood, such as oak or cherry. Look for signs of quarter-sawn wood, which has a distinctive grain pattern that adds to the furniture's value.
• Design: Stickley furniture is known for its simple, functional designs. Look for clean lines, geometric shapes, and a lack of unnecessary ornamentation.

Collecting Stickley Furniture

Collecting Stickley furniture can be a rewarding hobby for those who appreciate quality craftsmanship and timeless design. However, it can also be a challenging and expensive pursuit. Here are some tips for collecting Stickley furniture:

• Research: Do your research before making a purchase. Learn about the different styles and models of Stickley furniture, as well as their value and rarity.
• Condition: Look for pieces of Stickley furniture in good condition. While some signs of wear and tear are expected with age, extensive damage can greatly reduce the value of a piece.
• Authenticity: Make sure the piece is authentic before making a purchase. Look for labels, signs of handcrafted joinery, and high-quality wood.
• Price: Stickley furniture can be expensive, especially for rare or highly sought-after pieces. Set a budget and stick to it, and be prepared to negotiate with sellers.
• Display: Once you have acquired a piece of Stickley furniture, display it in a way that showcases its beauty and craftsmanship. Stickley furniture looks great in a variety of settings, from traditional to modern.

Conclusion

Stickley furniture is a testament to the enduring appeal of quality craftsmanship and timeless design. Its simple, elegant designs and solid construction make it highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike. If you are interested in collecting Stickley furniture, be sure to do your research and look for authentic, high-quality pieces. With a little patience and dedication, you can build a collection of beautiful and valuable furniture that will last a lifetime.

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