Reading a Maker's Mark: Knoll, Thonet, Cassina
Where to look, what to decode. A guide to the stamps, labels and numbers that separate a true edition from a copy.
1 MIN · 1 OBJECT IDENTIFIEDA design piece often earns its value through its maker's mark. Learning to read a stamp is the skill that separates the seasoned buyer from the mug.
Where to look
Under the seat, under the top, inside a leg, on the back of a backrest. Hot-branded stamp, woven label, riveted plate, laser engraving, depending on the period.
The great houses
Knoll (label, sometimes a number), Thonet (branded stamp, B- model number), Cassina (engraving with serial number and year), Vitra (moulded stamp), Artek. Each house has its own logic — a fake often gives itself away through a mark that is too crisp or anachronistic.
The trap
Fake labels exist. Always cross-check: maker's mark + quality of material + period consistency + provenance. A single proof is never enough.
A suspect piece? Photograph the mark and run it through Beyit.
One photo, every piece identified.
Your room, a shop window, an inspiration screenshot: send the photo, we find the pieces and their alternatives at every price.
On iPhone, the app does the same from your camera.
The pieces, at your budget.
Every piece mentioned, with its alternatives — from vintage to dupe.
Gallery
4 images
