I agree with Sonny. As long as you have no interest in getting the piece appraised to determine if it has antique value, then strip off the old finish and apply a new one. The inherent wood co ...
The photo that I posted is from the internet of a chair that is almost identical to the one that I am about to stain. I like the color. I am sorry for the understanding.
Can't guess at the age unless we see them.
1) Some new chairs have numbers, too.
2)Some old chairs have their numbers carved into each the chair frame and the corresponding seat.... these chairs ...