Authenticity & restoration

Authenticity:
We only sell authentic Mid-Century pieces. All wooden parts are original. We don’t replace damaged parts by new ones or use other damaged Jeanneret pieces. Sometimes pieces were repaired between 1960- 1985. These already have a strong patina as part of their history. That doesn’t reduce the value, sometimes the repairs are very beautifully done, and that makes them even richer. Nevertheless, we will mention that. Pierre Jeanneret’s objects always imply a story of destruction and repairs. They illustrate a collage of history. Pedja Hadzimanovic personally picks all pieces. He only buys unrestored pieces, so all traces and important indicators of their authenticity are visible. Old cracks, many layers of scratches, old traces of worn lacquer, acid from human handling, which made some parts more oxidised and darker, are important to see.
This part is so important because in India there are no invoices and serious documents of authenticity. Serious researches about the history of provenance are difficult. So we don’t buy restored pieces because too many important indicators have already vanished and we would not be able to guarantee their authenticity. Cushions, cane, upholstery, and foam are, in most cases, redone by us. That is standard and doesn’t reduce their value. On some rare Museum-quality pieces and rare collector pieces we keep original parts. We mention that always. Sometimes we have to dismantle the objects, so we replace some inner screws with new ones. That will not be visible from outside and will give additional stability.

Restoration:
These are collector pieces, the value is defined by their authenticity. So we carry out a very gentle restoration so as not to destroy too much of it. On the other hand, we make the pieces suitable for normal use. So there is always a compromise. Some very gently-restored chairs can shake. They didn’t fall apart
in the last 50 years, so they are secure. We would mention if they shake. Nevertheless, we avoid sanding them completely and making them looking like new. That destroys their unique beauty and value. You will see holes, small cracks, old chips, irregularity, insect holes and other imperfections. Especially on the parts underneath as we don’t do anything and show their authenticity. You get photos, so you can check if you like this raw character.

Condition/ use:
Bear in mind that these are antique pieces. They are for daily use. But cane seats, in particular, are always a bit more fragile. In this case, we recommend using a cushion. Pedja Hadzimanovic personally doesn’t do that and has no problems. However, cane is fragile and it may need partial or complete replacement after several years. The wood has such a lot of patina if you add a scratch you needn’t worry. It will be one of thousands. Add a bit of polish or a drop of stain and they are gone. That makes them very easy and if something breaks, you also don’t need to worry. Bring it to a carpenter who can glue it together and with a bit of sanding and staining it becomes invisible. Continuing the history of those furniture pieces.