Often no attempt is made to adhere to original design. Spray finishes have a glassy, artificial look and are cold to the touch. French polish has a crystal ball effect. The surface has depth and the wood grain shows through. It is relatively warm to the touch and looks friendly.
Repairs can drastically devalue a piece.
Restoration can only increase value and enhance aesthetics. She bought two very pretty chairs that year, upholstered them in a tasteful fabric and advertised them in the Pretoria News. The response to the ad was overwhelming and thus Precious Pieces was born and my dislike of Antiques. Later, I went to London and lived there for six years working and studying in the Accounting profession. There, I was surrounded by antiques.