[KATHYPERKINS]

We have a shiftrobe this was made in the 1900 -1920 good shape for the age.. does anyone no what it would be worth? Thanks Kathy

[Clough]

Hi, KATHYPERKINS!

Around here, we would call it an armoire. Looks to be made of pine, at least on the inside. Also appears to be painted. Would both of those observations be correct?

Do you know if it has hard wood veneer underneath the paint?

A couple more additional images of the exterior with the doors closed would be helpful.

Thanks!

[Wondergirl]

Clough is correct. A chifforobe has both hanging space and drawers. This would be an armoire or wardrobe.

Your public library will have price guides on antique and collectible furniture; photos will be included. If you can't find such a book, ask a reference librarian to get one for you from another library. You will also want to find out the location and phone number of reputable antique dealers in your area. Many will come to your home to appraise furniture.

[Clough]

Hi again, KATHYPERKINS!

If you answer the questions that I asked and also post some additional images, I can give you a possible price range for it.

Mainly what I evaluate is pianos. But, I have also been in contact with numerous styles of antique furniture for about thirty years because of doing refinishing, repairs and re-veneering.

Your using the word "shiftrobe" is fine! Many people might call it that. It's kind of like people calling a lectern and a podium the same thing. People will most likely know what you mean. Some names for things have become interchangeable over the years.

If we look at grand pianos for instance, people can get hung up as to whether it's a grand (concert sized grand) or a "baby" grand. There's really about seven or eight name designations for a grand piano. They're all "grand pianos" because they are built basically horizontally to the direction of the floor.

Wardrobe cabinets that are built vertically to the floor, being portable or not, likewise have a number of different names. Some have draws and shelves and some don't.

What something is called in one era may not have the same name in other eras. Clavier, Hammer Clavier, Fortepiano, Pianoforte, Piano, Keyboard, etc. All of those can mean the same instrument.

Thanks!