For my first case study, I look at the alteration of an antique buffet cabinet. The original cabinet, created with a rich, reddish wood and metal handles on the doors and drawers, was painted baby blue and pale pink, with gold detailing. The reason I chose to use this object as an example is because the alteration job goes beyond simple restoration, modifying the look of the piece drastically.

Arguments Against Alteration

• You’re altering a piece of history

• You’re changing the piece drastically

• You’re devaluing the antique

In the debate surrounding the ethics of altering vintage and antique items, a common argument against major alterations like this one states that, by painting the cabinet, you are changing a piece of history. The paint job done on the cabinet makes it look completely different, therefore the original piece practically does not exist anymore. Additionally, painting antique furniture may devalue the piece, meaning that if you ever want to resell it, you will receive less back than what you originally paid. Many people, especially the younger generations, purchase furniture and clothing with the intention to one day resell it rather than throwing it out. A report completed by ThreadUP, and online vintage shop, found that in 2021, Gen Z was 165% more likely than Boomers to consider the resale value of clothing before purchasing and 33% more likely than Boomers to resell clothing. While this report focused on clothing rather than furniture consumption, it still applies that Gen Z view their purchases as more temporary than past generations. The ability to resell a product is important to many people, and in order to do that the object must be kept in good condition. In the antique world, finishes that allow the original wood of a piece—as long it looks good—to shine through typically hold more value than painted wood, as they make the furniture appear more authentic. 

Arguments For Alteration

• You own the piece, therefore can do what you want with it

• You’re making good use out of something that would otherwise go unused

• Alterations can fix wear and tear

• Paint can be removed

• Value is not always the most important consideration

A major argument in favor of alteration is the fact that, when you buy an object, you own it, therefore you can do with it as you please. Additionally, many people find old furniture at yard sales or secondhand shops like thrift stores. These objects will get thrown out if someone does not purchase them. By purchasing the item and redesigning it, you are giving what was once trash a second life. Moreover, sometimes painting a piece of furniture can make it look better by covering its damaged or bland surface, enhancing its usability. I also want to remind you that not all alteration jobs are permanent; if you use the right kind of paint and adhere to the correct methods, paint can often be removed. Furthermore, while painting old furniture may bring it down in value, a reason why some people refrain from painting their antiques, I want to suggest two counter points to this argument. Firstly, sometimes a piece of furniture needs a new coat of paint, and painting it can actually add value to the object. This blog titled You’re seriously going to paint you Antiques? suggests multiple instances where painting a piece of furniture may actually benefit it. For example: if the piece dates back to less than fifty years old, if you did not pay a lot of money for it in the first place, if the original finish appears damaged, if it has carved details that may pop with a coat of paint. Those are just a few reasons why painting antiques can sometimes make for a smart choice. Secondly, value is not always the most important thing to consider. If you are not looking to resell or hand down an antique in later years, then you do not need to worry about its market price. Your only concern should be how much the piece is worth to you personally.