I inherated a set of cast iron garden seats armchairs with lyre-back design from my 95 year grandmother a few years ago old. They have scrolled and floral elements, as well as a few layers of paint with lots of patina. Size approximately: 32″ high, 20.5″ wide, 22″ deep, seat height 16″, depth 17″. The chair on the right side of photo has no damage (good condition); however, the one on the right side of photo has a piece about 1-1/2″ broken out of it (about 3″ up from seat on back, off to right of large lyre, next to arm). Grandma had them for approximately 60 years (I don’t know where she acquired them or how old they area). I would like to sell them but I don’t know what they are worth or where to list them for sale (perhaps an online auction house; something more professional/specialized than ebay or craigs list). Can anyone provide me with insight or point me in the right direction.
Since there are no pictures, I assume from your description that by [i]a set[/i], you are speaking about a pair of chairs (a set would normally be four). Arm chairs are more valuable than those without. The damage decreases the value of the pair considerably.
Selling on-line would incur horrendous shipping costs, no to mention the nightmare of packing them. Local auctions will charge a premium and may not let you set a reserve. If you use a local company be sure you are familiar with their ethics or you may get ripped off. Craig’s list is easier and probably safer. You can set the price, including – “or best offer” – and see what happens. You are under no obligation to sell if you do not get the price you want. Perhaps a local consignment shop or flea market would be options. Just make sure to find out how much it will cost you before you finalize your price. A lot of your success will depend on the area of the country in which you live.
Value – some of these chairs can be quite valuable. The best way would be to research on-line. Google [i]”wrought iron lyre back chairs.” [/i]You will find some specialist sellers who have some for sale – you can compare yours to theirs. Do not expect to get a retail price for them. You won’t. Cut the retail price down to about 1/4 or perhaps 1/3. Dealers pay about 1/2 retail at most. However, yours has damage, so the pair is worth less. Good luck.