Condition & Care Guide
Vintage pieces carry a history. Understanding their materials and condition helps you choose well and enjoy them for years.
Reading a vintage listing
Read the description, dimensions and condition notes alongside every photograph. Closeups may show wear that is less noticeable in a room. Ask us about any detail that matters to you before purchase.
Patina, wear and restoration
Patina is the surface character that develops with age and use. Scratches, fading, small marks and variations in colour can occur in vintage pieces. Wear, repairs and restoration vary by item; the individual listing is the guide. Do not assume a piece has been refinished, reupholstered or restored unless stated.
Maker and attribution
Maker marks, labels and documentation are shown when available. “Attributed to,” “cataloged as” and “in the style of” express different levels of certainty and should not be read as an unqualified maker guarantee. Contact us for the evidence available for a particular piece.
Caring for furniture
Rosewood, teak, walnut and other wood
Dust gently with a clean, soft cloth. Keep furniture away from direct sunlight, radiators and sudden changes in temperature or humidity. Use coasters and protective pads; wipe spills promptly. Lift objects rather than dragging them over the surface.
Finishes differ. Do not apply oil, wax, silicone polish, alcohol, solvents or abrasive cleaners without first identifying the finish and confirming a suitable treatment. Avoid soaking veneer and leaving damp items on wood. Ask a qualified furniture conservator about fragile surfaces, loose veneer or substantial repairs.
Upholstery and leather
Vacuum gently with a suitable upholstery attachment and low suction. Blot spills rather than rubbing. Follow any surviving care label. Have a professional assess vintage fabrics and leather before wet cleaning or applying treatments; unknown fibres, dyes and old foam may react unpredictably.
Metal, glass and hardware
Use a soft cloth and avoid abrasive products. Keep cleaner away from adjoining wood and upholstery. Do not polish plated or patinated metal aggressively. Lift furniture by its structural frame, never by glass, decorative handles or loose components.
Art & lighting
Paintings, prints and frames
Keep art out of direct sunlight and away from damp areas. Dust frames gently; do not apply cleaning products to a painted or printed surface. Apply suitable glazing cleaner to a cloth, never directly to the frame or glazing. Use a professional framer or conservator for loose mounts, damaged frames or artwork requiring treatment.
Vintage lighting
Follow the condition and testing information in the individual listing. Do not assume that age, appearance or a maker label establishes electrical safety. Have vintage wiring assessed by a qualified electrician before use when its safety or suitability is uncertain. Unplug before cleaning and use bulbs appropriate to the fitting.
Moving & placement
Measure your access route before purchase. Discuss heavy, fragile or large pieces with your mover. Lift rather than drag furniture, remove loose shelves when appropriate and protect corners and glazing. Check stability after placement; ask a qualified installer about suitable wall anchoring for tall furniture.
For advice about a particular piece, contact Vintage Voyage. General guidance cannot replace an assessment of its specific materials, finish and condition.