Primitives
Primitives are early American or colonial-style antique items that were commonly used in everyday life from the 1700s through the early 1900s. These items are typically handmade, simple in design, and show signs of their practical use. The term covers furniture, household tools, kitchenware, and decorative items that have a rustic, handcrafted appearance. These pieces are valued for their historical significance, craftsmanship, and ability to give insight into how people lived in earlier times.
Examples in Resumes
Specialized in authenticating and pricing Primitives and early American artifacts
Managed a successful estate sale featuring rare American Primitives and colonial items
Restored and documented Colonial Primitives for major auction houses
Typical job title: "Primitive Antique Dealers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Primitive Antique Dealers
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Trade Shows & Events
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Expert Level Questions
Q: How do you authenticate and date primitive antiques?
Expected Answer: An expert should discuss examining construction methods, materials, wear patterns, and historical context. They should mention tools like black lights for finish analysis and knowledge of regional characteristics.
Q: What factors influence the valuation of primitive antiques in today's market?
Expected Answer: Should explain how condition, rarity, provenance, regional significance, and current market trends affect pricing. Should also discuss how to research comparable sales and auction results.
Intermediate Level Questions
Q: What are common restoration mistakes to watch for in primitive furniture?
Expected Answer: Should identify inappropriate repairs, modern materials used in restoration, over-restoration that diminishes value, and signs of artificial aging or distressing.
Q: How do you educate clients about the value and history of primitive pieces?
Expected Answer: Should discuss communication methods, use of historical documentation, explaining craftsmanship features, and helping clients understand the investment potential.
Entry Level Questions
Q: What are the main categories of primitive antiques?
Expected Answer: Should list major categories like furniture, kitchen items, tools, textiles, and decorative pieces, with basic examples of each type.
Q: How do you identify common woods used in primitive furniture?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate basic knowledge of common woods like pine, oak, and maple, and ability to recognize basic grain patterns and wood characteristics.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic identification of primitive styles
- Understanding of common materials
- Basic condition assessment
- Customer service skills
Mid (2-5 years)
- Detailed authentication knowledge
- Market value assessment
- Basic restoration knowledge
- Networking with collectors and dealers
Senior (5+ years)
- Expert authentication abilities
- Advanced market analysis
- Deep historical knowledge
- Established dealer network
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to identify basic construction methods
- No knowledge of historical periods
- Lack of hands-on experience with antiques
- Poor understanding of market values
- No experience in authentication
Related Terms
Need more hiring wisdom? Check these out...
Refining Job Descriptions to Expand Applicant Pools: Casting a Wider Talent Net
A Beginner's Guide to Implementing an Applicant Tracking System
Resume Optimizations that Candidates Do to Get Past AI Hiring Filters
