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Unexpected “Fake” Verdict Stuns Antiques Roadshow Guest
A guest appearing on BBC’s Antiques Roadshow experienced considerable shock and dismay when a program expert delivered a sharply critical assessment of her antique furniture piece. Expert appraiser Christopher Payne was present to examine a small walnut writing bureau, an item treasured within the lady’s family for generations. However, it soon became evident that the bureau’s presumed history was not entirely accurate during the furniture appraisal.
Initial Examination of the Walnut Writing Bureau
Providing context about the item’s provenance, the guest explained it had purportedly been gifted to her grandfather’s grandmother as a wedding present, suggesting it could be approximately 300 years old. Christopher Payne, however, expressed initial skepticism regarding the purported age and condition of the piece. He noted alterations to the desk’s feet over time. Despite his concerns, he acknowledged the appealing small dimensions of the vintage desk, suggesting its potential desirability among furniture enthusiasts should the owner consider selling.
Family History and Expectations of Age Unveiled
Payne remarked that he believed the bureau likely originated from the era of “Queen Anne, George I, 1700 to 1720,” before inquiring about its history. The woman recounted: “The family narrative is that it entered our lineage through my grandfather’s grandmother, who served as a housekeeper in a grand Staffordshire residence. Upon marrying the gardener, she was supposedly gifted this bureau as a wedding present.” She elaborated, “My grandfather was born in 1854, and it belonged to his grandmother, which should place its origin around 1820, correct?”
Expert Appraiser’s Growing Suspicions During In-Depth Inspection
Conducting a more thorough antique valuation, Christopher Payne identified several typical characteristics of the bureau. Yet, upon removing a drawer, he discovered a potential anomaly. “Observing the refinement of the dovetail joints, the craftsmanship appears somewhat lacking. It’s not executed to the desired standard,” he commented. He further added, “And I harbor reservations regarding this staining along the edge. The staining consistency between the top and side panels raises suspicion that someone artificially applied it to simulate age and wear.”
Discovery Leads to Startling Conclusion About the Furniture’s Authenticity
Illustrating his point, Payne displayed the drawer’s interior to the owner, questioning, “Does this interior exhibit signs of 300 years of use?” Delivering his critical assessment, he informed her, “Based on my examination, I believe this piece dates back to, at the very earliest, the turn of this century.” Visibly astonished, the owner exclaimed, “This century?”
“I Think It’s a Fake” – The Bombshell Appraisal on Antiques Roadshow
Dropping a bombshell revelation on the BBC program, Christopher Payne concluded, “I believe it’s… I must employ a term I believe I’ve never before uttered on Roadshow. I think it’s a fake.”
Unexpected Value Despite Damning Verdict on Family Heirloom
Notwithstanding the disclosure, Payne clarified that the piece still possessed an estimated value of approximately £3,000. Torn between disappointment and relief, the owner conveyed that they had long desired to ascertain the bureau’s true history. This particular episode of Antiques Roadshow initially broadcasted in 1998.