What Makes Furniture Antique or Vintage? A Beginner’s Guide

When shopping for unique and timeless furniture, you’ve likely come across the terms antique and vintage. But what do they really mean? And how can you tell the difference?

At Le Chateau, we specialize in curating authentic European antiques—and we believe understanding the difference between antique, vintage, and reproduction pieces helps you shop with confidence and style.

We only offer authentic antique or vintage pieces, sourced by us directly from France.

What Qualifies as Antique Furniture?

By definition, a piece of furniture must be at least 100 years old to be considered antique. That means if it was crafted in or before the 1920s, it meets the antique threshold. These pieces were typically handmade with old-world techniques, solid woods, natural finishes, and often bear signs of age such as patina, original hardware, or aged mirrors.

Common characteristics of antique furniture:

• Crafted before the 20th century (often 18th or 19th century)
  
• Made using joinery methods (not mass-produced)
  
• Signs of age like foxing on mirrors, worn paint, or natural cracks in marble
  
• Often tied to a specific historical style (e.g., Louis XV, Louis XVI, Empire)
  

Looking for true antiques?

Explore our curated selection of authentic 18th and 19th century furniture Shop Antiques →

What Is Considered Vintage Furniture?

The term vintage typically refers to furniture that is 20 to 99 years old. Think Art Deco vanities from the 1930s, mid-century chairs from the 1960s, or Hollywood Regency pieces from the 1980s. These items are not yet antique but are still collectible, stylish, and full of character.

While Le Chateau primarily offers true antiques, you will find select vintage European pieces—especially if they have distinctive design features or exceptional craftsmanship.

Examples of vintage furniture styles:

• Swedish (1930's-50's)
  
• Art Deco (1920s–40s)
  
• Mid-Century Modern (1950s–70s)
  
• Postmodern / 1980s glam

Why Swedish Nightstands Are a Timeless Favorite

Among our best-selling pieces, authentic Swedish nightstands stand out for their versatility, clean lines, and soft painted finishes. With origins in the Gustavian era, these pieces blend neoclassical elegance with Scandinavian simplicity—making them perfect for both traditional and contemporary homes.

Whether you prefer one with carved rosettes, fluted legs, or antique white patina, our Swedish nightstands offer refined charm and practical storage that works beautifully beside a bed, in a powder room, or as an accent in a hallway.

Ready to fall in love with Swedish design?

Shop Authentic Swedish Nightstands →

Antique vs. Vintage vs. Reproduction: Know the Difference

While age plays a role, what truly sets antique, vintage, and reproduction furniture apart is the level of craftsmanship and authenticity in their design and construction.

Antique pieces are known for their unparalleled quality—often handcrafted from solid woods using traditional joinery techniques. You’ll find carved details, dovetail drawers, original hardware, and finishes that have developed a rich, natural patina over time. These are pieces that were made to last for generations and continue to bring historical depth and beauty to any space.

Vintage furniture may still reflect a high level of craftsmanship, especially mid-century or Art Deco pieces, but they tend to be simpler in construction and more aligned with the design trends of their era. While charming and collectible, they often lack the timeless detailing and historical context of true antiques.

Reproduction furniture, though styled to look old, is typically made with modern materials and short-cut methods. It may mimic the silhouette or motifs of antique styles, but it often lacks the weight, texture, and soul that come with authentic age and artisan work.

At Le Chateau, we curate only genuine European antiques—pieces that are not just beautiful, but meaningful. Our collection is chosen for style, substance, and history, so when you shop with us, you’re investing in something real.

See the Difference: Browse Our Latest Arrivals →

Still Not Sure? We’ll Help You Find the Perfect Piece

Whether you’re just starting your antique journey or you're looking to add your next heirloom, we’re here to help. Our team can guide you through styles, scale, customization options, and shipping—no guesswork required.

Book a complimentary design consultation

Nationwide white-glove delivery available

Endless customization options

Not sure where to start? Try our Louis Philippe mirrors or Swedish nightstands—timeless and functional.

Final Thoughts: Antique or Vintage, Choose Pieces With Soul

Furniture is more than function—it’s personality, history, and lasting beauty. Whether you fall for an 18th-century French bench or a charming vintage console, choosing a piece with age and character means inviting timeless design into your life.

And when it’s truly antique? You’ll know. The craftsmanship, patina, and presence speak for themselves.