How To Identify Maitland Smith Furniture

Maitland-Smith is a renowned furniture and decorative accessory company known for its high-quality craftsmanship, intricate designs, and use of exotic materials. Identifying authentic Maitland-Smith pieces requires careful observation and attention to detail. This guide outlines a structured approach to help you distinguish genuine Maitland-Smith furniture from imitations.

Step 1: Examine the Overall Design and Style

Maitland-Smith furniture typically exhibits a distinctive aesthetic that blends classical influences with exotic and sometimes whimsical elements. Look for the following design characteristics:

• Eclecticism: Maitland-Smith often incorporates diverse styles from different historical periods and cultures. You might find pieces that combine elements of Regency, Asian, and Art Deco design.
• Exotic Materials: The company frequently uses materials like shagreen (shark or stingray skin), lacquered wood, bronze, brass, inlaid stone, and various types of veneers.
• Intricate Details: Pay close attention to the level of detail. Maitland-Smith pieces are known for their meticulously crafted embellishments, such as hand-carved elements, intricate metalwork, and precisely applied finishes.
• Unusual Forms: Many Maitland-Smith designs feature unique and unexpected shapes. Look for furniture with serpentine fronts, curved legs, and other distinctive silhouettes.

For example, a Maitland-Smith desk might feature a mahogany veneer, bronze accents, and a tooled leather writing surface, all combined in a way that reflects the brand's signature eclecticism. If a piece lacks this level of detail and sophistication, it is less likely to be a genuine Maitland-Smith.

Step 2: Locate and Analyze Identifying Marks

One of the most reliable ways to identify Maitland-Smith furniture is by locating and analyzing the manufacturer's marks. These marks can take various forms, including:

• Metal Tags: Look for small metal tags or plaques, often made of brass or bronze, attached to the furniture. These tags typically bear the "Maitland-Smith" name or logo.
• Stamps or Imprints: Check for stamped or imprinted marks on the underside of drawers, the back of cabinets, or other less visible areas.
• Paper Labels: Some older pieces may have paper labels affixed to them. However, these labels are often fragile and may be missing or damaged.

When you find a mark, examine it closely. A genuine Maitland-Smith mark will be clearly legible and well-executed. Compare the mark to known examples found in reference materials or online databases dedicated to furniture marks. Be wary of marks that appear blurry, poorly made, or inconsistent with established Maitland-Smith branding.

Example: A metal tag might read "Maitland-Smith, Made in the Philippines" accompanied by a serial number or model number. The presence of a clear, well-defined tag like this is a strong indication of authenticity.

Step 3: Assess the Quality of Materials and Construction

Maitland-Smith prides itself on using high-quality materials and employing superior construction techniques. Evaluating these aspects can provide valuable clues about a piece's authenticity.

• Wood Quality: Maitland-Smith often uses hardwoods such as mahogany, rosewood, and ebony, as well as exotic veneers. Examine the wood grain and finish. Look for a smooth, even surface and a rich, lustrous color.
• Metalwork: Pay attention to the quality of the metal components. Maitland-Smith typically uses solid brass or bronze, which have a substantial weight and a fine finish. Avoid pieces with lightweight or poorly finished metal parts.
• Joinery: Inspect the joinery (how the different parts of the furniture are connected). Maitland-Smith furniture typically features strong, well-executed joinery techniques such as dovetail joints, mortise-and-tenon joints, and fitted corner blocks. Sloppy or weak joinery is a red flag.
• Upholstery: If the piece is upholstered, examine the fabric and the quality of the stitching. Maitland-Smith uses high-quality fabrics and pays close attention to detail in the upholstery process.

Example: A Maitland-Smith chair should have a solid frame with tight, secure joints. The upholstery should be neatly applied, with even stitching and no loose threads. The use of high-quality fabric, such as silk or velvet, would further support its authenticity.

Step 4: Research the Piece's Design and History

Researching the design and history of a piece can help you determine whether it is a genuine Maitland-Smith product. Look for the following:

• Catalogues and Publications: Check online resources and antique furniture reference books for catalogues or publications that feature Maitland-Smith furniture. If you can find a similar piece in a catalogue, it is more likely to be authentic.
• Online Databases: Explore online databases dedicated to furniture identification and appraisal. These databases may contain information about Maitland-Smith designs, including production dates and original retail prices.
• Auction Records: Search auction records to see if similar pieces have been sold at auction. This can provide valuable information about the piece's value and authenticity.

Example: You might find an online listing for a Maitland-Smith game table with a detailed description and images. If the piece you are examining closely matches the description and images in the listing, it is more likely to be authentic.

Step 5: Consult with an Expert

If you are unsure about the authenticity of a piece, it is always a good idea to consult with an expert. An experienced furniture appraiser or antique dealer can examine the piece in person and provide a professional opinion.

Benefits of consulting an expert:

• Expert Knowledge: Appraisers have extensive knowledge of furniture styles, materials, and construction techniques.
• Objective Assessment: An appraiser can provide an unbiased assessment of the piece's authenticity and value.
• Detailed Report: An appraiser can provide a written report that documents their findings and supports their opinion.

While consulting an expert may involve a fee, it can be a worthwhile investment, especially if you are considering purchasing a valuable piece of furniture.

Practical Advice and Insights

Identifying Maitland-Smith furniture requires a combination of careful observation, research, and expert knowledge. By following these steps, you can significantly increase your chances of identifying authentic pieces and avoiding costly mistakes. Always trust your instincts and don't hesitate to seek expert advice when needed. Remember that genuine Maitland-Smith furniture represents a significant investment in quality and craftsmanship, making the effort to authenticate it worthwhile.