.but I do have a hard time convincing myself to paint an antique that is in good condition
I have a pet theory about that. I would argue that once an old piece of furniture is removed from the house living space, to the attic,basement, garage, barn, etc, it's chances of survival go WAY DOWN! So anything that keeps it in the main house is a GOOD THING! and besides, paint can always be removed so i say, PAINT AWAY!