Colonial-period slat-backs have subtle differences
Terry & Kim Kovel or square rods, perhaps with a small foot.
But the easiest way to tell the difference is in the seat. A Canadian chair seat is woven splint that is 15 inches from the floor. It was made to hold a cushion that raised the seat to 16 or 17 inches, the height of an American chair seat.
Q: I have a "24-carat lead crystal" footed bowl, about 8¾ inches wide. The booklet it came with says it's called Longchamp, made by Cristal d'arques, France. The bowl has a small "v" chip under the rim that isn't visible unless you turn the bowl on its side. When was this bowl made? Can the chip be repaired? Should I have it repaired? And what is its value?
A: The Verreriecristallerie d'arques glass factory was started in 1825 in northern France. Its brand, Cristal d'arques Paris, was introduced in 1968, as elegant and affordable glassware. The Longchamp pattern dates from 1978. Your bowl is "lead glass" (also called lead crystal), meaning it contains at least 24 percent (not carat!) lead oxide, which adds to its clarity and brilliance.
You can get the chip ground down but not "restored." Look on the internet for a person who repairs glass near you, or ask at an antique show. Longchamp bowls, 8¾ inches with a pedestal base like yours, sell for $39 at Replacements. com. The price would be less with a chip or a repair.
CURRENT PRICES
Current prices are recorded from antiques shows, flea markets, sales and auctions throughout the United States. Prices vary in different locations because of local economic conditions.
• Pewter dish: overlapping leaves, handle, J. Despres, Avallon,
8 by 18 inches, $60
• Candelabrum: 6-light, bronze, crystal, spear finial, stars and beads swags, scalloped base, 35 by 15 inches, $180
• Rose medallion punch bowl: figures, courtyard, flowers, birds, multicolor, 4½ by 11 inches, $270
Terry Kovel and Kim Kovel, authorities on collectibles, write for the King Features Syndicate. Visit www. kovels.com.