Antique Furniture Feet: A Recognition Guide

Bracket, bun, ball, cabriole, claw-and-ball, spade and turned feet contribute to style and function.

What to examine

Inspect how each foot joins the carcase or leg, and compare wear, timber and colour across the set.

Avoid the common trap

Feet are vulnerable and frequently reduced or replaced. Correct-looking shape does not guarantee originality.

Record your findings

Photograph the whole object, the feature in context and a close-up with scale. Note what is observed separately from any conclusion.

Reliable starting points

• [V&A collections](https://www.vam.ac.uk/collections)
• [The Metropolitan Museum of Art: Heilbrunn Timeline](https://www.metmuseum.org/toah/)

Identification should combine several forms of evidence. Do not use destructive tests, and seek a specialist opinion where attribution or value matters.

Learn by looking closely

See workshop examinations and restoration details on the [Antique Repair Shop YouTube channel](https://www.youtube.com/@AntiqueRepairShop).