Begin with the object as it is
Take an overall view with the furniture’s outline visible and note which sides are accessible. Record height, width and depth only if measured, including the units and what points you measured between. If a view is blocked, mark it unavailable rather than inventing the hidden construction. Work with what is already accessible; this guide does not require lifting, dismantling or turning furniture over to produce a complete-looking record. An honest limitation is part of a useful brief.
Select details that answer a question
Choose a few views of visible handles, joints, decoration or an existing label, and pair each with the overall image. For example, photograph the drawer front and an already visible joint separately when asking whether two details seem consistent. Avoid removing parts simply to satisfy an online checklist. Keep the original photographs without filters that smooth wear or recolor surfaces. Describe a visible difference between components instead of immediately declaring that one must be a replacement.
Write a short handover
Give the object a record number and include one focused question, such as which reference collection might help compare the leg shape. State what the photographs cannot show. Keep any model-generated style suggestion in a separate paragraph from your measurements and observations. If someone replies with a possible maker, save their reasoning and the reference rather than only the name. A good brief can support a useful conversation even when nobody can establish an age from the available images.
Take it with you
- Show the whole object and label unavailable views.
- Connect selected details to a specific research question.
- Keep measured facts apart from proposed styles or makers.
Antique Scan
Antiques and object stories
AI identifications, dates and mark readings may be wrong or incomplete. Antique Scan is not authentication, certified appraisal or proof of provenance. The guides describe independent research practices, not additional app features. Access and any paid options depend on current in-app terms.