Antiques

Vandana Sharma asked:


Decorative antiques are of huge interest to many people, not only because of the sheer beauty of something old being restored, but because decorative antiques usually have an age old history about them!

Decorative antiques are currently very big in the UK as the dealers and collectors are pouring into the fairs and exhibitions with great enthusiasm. A very popular site for dealers in the UK is www.tudor-rose-antiques.co.uk where there is a variety of interesting decorative antiques on display including some history of the pieces.

Decorative antiques range from costume jewelry ,which is usually brought back to its original state without a drastic change to it. Pottery is also popular when referring to decorative antiques and some of the most well known ranges include the designs of Beswick and Bretby. We also find many big houses today where the residents have purchased decorative antiques in the form of furniture and mirrors that have been restored and are probably worth more now than when the designer first constructed the piece.

The amazing thing about decorative antiques is how their values can increase as time goes on. Some collectors will spend years trying to find the perfect piece of decorative antique to complete their extensive collections. Another decorative antique that is beautiful to look at is glass. Throughout the years, there were many famous glass blowers that produced amazing pieces now being seen all over the world, including the renowned work of Monart and Vasart.

Decorative antiques can be purchased at exhibitions, through catalogues, online and at auctions. Indeed, it seems that in today’s modern society everybody wants some sort of decorative antique in their home so they too may showcase a bit of history. If you feel the same and wish to purchase or read up on decorative antiques you can visit www.tudor-rose-antiques.co.uk. Whatever you are looking for, if it is related to antiques, you will likely find it there.



IRVIN

Clint Jhonson asked:


Those of you who need the expert opinion regarding the value of an antique item should resort to professionals who specialize in antique appraisal. Nowadays, there are many sites which offer a lot of information about the important elements of the appraisal of antique items. Due to the advanced existing technology, today it is easy to reproduce pieces that look exactly like the original and this is why antique collectors should resort to antique appraisal.

Each and every antique appraisal must be based on a professional code of ethics. An accredited appraiser plays an important role in pricing antiques and he must do his best to be impartial. As long as you pay an appraiser for his services, he will maintain impartiality but if you benefit from an appraisal coming from a dealer who wants to buy and resell the antique you will probably not receive an impartial value. Dealers usually price your antique low so that their profit is higher.

By paying for an antique appraisal, you will succeed to protect yourself from a motive to deceive. Although any person can pretend to be an appraiser, only an authorized appraiser bound by a professional code can be correct in pricing antiques in an ethical manner. Furthermore, an antique dealer must be accredited by an appraisal organization.

Most of the times the internet is not enough to obtain an accurate antique appraisal due to the fact that appraisers need to see and touch a piece in order to determine its true value. However, there are some professional websites that will help you get a professional opinion and a fair price for your antique. Keep in mind that all appraisals must be based on seeing your antique and anyone who offers for pricing antiques without having seen them is not doing you a favor.

Moreover, reputable appraisals are done usually per hour and you should pay somewhere between 40-100 dollars for an appraisal. Also, make sure that your appraisal includes information about protecting your antiques and about selling them. Do not resort to an appraiser who offers to buy the item he is appraising! f you don’t have time to look for a reputable appraiser, you can find one on the internet.

Although the main drawback to online antique appraisal is the fact that the condition of the item cannot be evaluated correctly if you are not honest about all the details, there are some appraisers who have learned to look for signs of condition aspects through photos. This is very difficult but it can be done. Furthermore some appraisers will be able to offer you information regarding the age, style and history of the item, besides the common information regarding how you should take care of the item.

Another benefit of online antique appraisal is the fact that it can be submitted whenever you please, day or night. All you have to do is give some detailed photos, fill in a questionnaire about the item and upload the form. However, you must be aware of the fact that some details of the item can be lost in the photo. Having said all that, there’s no need to worry if you resort to online appraisers for pricing antiques as their credentials and references have been verified.



OMAR

David Fishman asked:


If you are deciding to become an antique dealer keep in mind that you will be meeting many different type of people, each of these people you meet have a different role in antique dealings. Many people are now finding antiques as a great way of making their rooms look that little bit more special. When it comes to antiques many people have their own agenda, many people prefer clocks, porcelain, furniture or jewelry.

Next look to make sure that you can afford to purchase items in your chosen item, you may be fascinated say by rare art, but unfortunately it may be unaffordable. Purchasing antiques usually involves money; lots of money, gathering the proper information can help with the purchase process and avoid being fooled or making mistakes. Knowing the how to speak “antique” or knowing the proper terminology and doing the proper research will help in determining what to look for and what to buy, it will also help in knowing how much the items are worth so you don’t overpay for the item.

In today’s world antiques have become big business for many people, finding that piece that was created many years ago and selling it for 3 to 4 times its value is a great way to make money. If you compare the same items today with those that were created years ago it is amazing how the older items are made incredibly well plus they fetch more money on the market.

To find old pieces of furniture you need to look in the following places, outhouses, attics or cellars, many people stored their valuable items in these places. Furniture began to bear designs such as pagodas and birds, originally only seen on items of porcelain. Antique furniture that has been covered with a finish that is long lasting will look better plus fetch a higher price. But, over time and with polishing, oak darkens into a rich brown color. Until the middle of the 17th Century, furniture was fairly simple, made of oak with peg joints.

Place your collection on display or will then be kept in a safe place. For some who have inherited a lovely collection of heirlooms, yet do not have any idea of how to look after them or even keeping up with the collection they already have as well as they should.

It’s the fluctuations in relative humidity caused by central heating that results in real damage. Consider installing a humidifier on your furnace to raise the humidity levels in winter and run a dehumidifier during the summer months. With wood antiques, you want the humidity to be as stable as possible. To take care of the antique furniture you will need to wax the pieces with bees wax, do not store the furniture in damp, bright rooms, and make sure the furniture is not in a place that the temperatures fluctuate because this may damage the wood.

There are many benefits when selling on an online Antique mall. You want to sell your antiques or collectibles online be careful and research the proper way to do this. One of the most popular places where people from all over the country display and have their antiques appraised is at the Antiques Roadshow.



EMMETT

smokeshopsandy asked:


I have many items I would like to sell online, such as antique toys, glassware and dolls.

LUTHER

December asked:


We’re downsizing and need to get rid of some furniture and assorted antiques. Has anyone out there had experience dealing with auction houses or estate sale dealers?

Should we send the stuff to an auction house(some of the pieces are large)? Have an on-site auction? Have an estate-type sale? We’re trying to decide which way to go.

Thanks for your help!

ANTHONY

Cajun_ Creater asked:


I will be decorating my “modern” house with a Victorian theme . My friends are helping by giving me old things that I adore. I was wondering where can I research how to find out if some of my things are just old or possibly antiques ? I have a lot of things being given to me that I know are old but I would like to find out if the have antique value to them. Ex: chandeliers, jewelery boxes, lamps ect.

I don’t want to lessen the value of anything if they are worth something. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

KENNETH

Dan Walter asked:


Antiques and collectibles are two hot categories on eBay. Collectibles by themselves represent billions of dollars in sales every year. This boom has been fueled by an ever-expanding e-commerce market place. No longer confined to only a local interest base, antique and collectible sellers now have a huge opportunity to cash in on their unique finds. And buyers can shop the world for the items they crave. Whether online or offline, buying and selling is the same - namely, people will continue to seek the same type of info and ask the same basic questions.

If antiques and collectibles interest you there are numerous online resources you can refer to in order to better understand the opportunities present in these categories.

Make a Friend out of Your Computer:

Plan on spending some time checking web sites devoted to antiques and collectibles. The bad news is, it takes time to look at all the good ones. The good news is, you’ll not only love checking these sites out but you’ll learn a lot along the way. A good place to start is with ‘The Kovels’ Top Twenty list’ at kovels.com. While you’re there get a free issue of Kovels on Antiques and Collectibles. Google, ‘antiques and collectibles’ to tap into a huge research database.

Visit a Bookstore:

There are a lot of great books on the shelves featuring antiques and collectibles. Your local library may have an assortment of books you can borrow free. Amazon.com offers a large list of popular books you can purchase at reasonable prices, particularly if you shop the used book bin. If you know of others interested in sharing the cost of books you can quickly save a great deal on your purchases. Form a private ‘resource library’ for family and friends to contribute to. And don’t forget magazines such as ‘ANTIQUES & COLLECTING MAGAZINE’ at acmagazine.com.

Check out Forums:

As with anything in life, experience helps. Today you have that experience at hand with a few click of a mouse button. Join as many online forums and groups devoted to antiques and collectibles as you can find. You are sure to find lots of people who share your interests. Try fantiques.com, antiques-collectibles-auction-news.com, forumgalleries.com. Google ‘antiques and collectibles forums’ for more suggestions. And don’t overlook the boards, such as HGTV’s Antiques & Collectibles Message Board.

Attend Shows:

Asking questions at shows will go a long way towards building your knowledge base. Seek out those items that really interest you and ask questions. Pay attention to what is being said around you as well. Here, it pays to be a good listener. Carrying a tape recorder will help you pickup on things you may have missed or to recall those things you’ve heard. Having a cell phone with a built in camera can be a big plus here as well. Check out ‘Google Directory for Antiques/Shows_and_Events/’ for a listing of various events. Many locations publish shows and event news and can easily be found online.

Specialization: Key to focus:

It’s a good idea, when starting out, that you specialize in one or two items that really interest you and that you can happily spend time learning about. The key is not to expend your energy chasing too many antiques or collectibles at once.

Gaining insight in your niche is vitally important. Mostly it takes time and a lot of questions and reading to get a good education. The more you learn about various objects the more you’ll be able to negotiate for the best prices when you buy. Remember that your profit is made when you buy. Selling is something you do to claim that profit. So don’t be afraid to ask questions before you buy. And, knowing your antiques well lets you negotiate the lowest prices. Asking for a discount when buying is to be expected. After all, when you sell your collectibles your buyer will also seek a discount. Plan on this when you buy. There are no “bad” prices, only bad negotiators.

Avoid Reserves When Selling:

You want to avoid reserves in the antique business when you sell. Placing a reserve price on your items is a quick way to lose two-thirds of your potential audience. If you’ve invested a lot in your items you can decide to set a reserve. Just remember that you will be limiting your ability to make a sale. Sometimes this won’t matter, at other times it may. To get a good idea of what your items will sell for look at similar items currently being sold.

Keep Good Records:

It pays to keep good records. Along with quality photos you’ll want some background information to include in the description. Get this at the time you are making the purchase! Don’t wait until you’ve dragged the stuff home before you start asking about the history of the items you’ve bought. Get all the information you can while standing before the seller and TAKE NOTES! You may even want to know who was the previous owner and if it would be possible to contact them to ask a few questions as well. In antiques and collectibles having the right information, the history of each item, can be a major reason why someone is compelled to buy from you rather then from someone else. The more you know, the more knowledgeable you come across.

Assessing Value:

Save having your antiques and collectible items appraised for the most expensive items you buy. Appraisals are expensive and not really necessary on items up to a $1,000. If you must know what it is worth you can check web sites like antiquemystique.com to assess value. Or Google “appraising antiques” for additional web sites.



TIMOTHY

adrienne s asked:


I have a pecan dining room set that is at least 50 years old.

LEONARD

Jesse Akre asked:


Antique end tables are popular because they have been able to withstand the test of time with their classic designs.

While some antique end tables come and go with whims of fashion, others become classics in style and home design. Few would argue that a 70s end table finished in burnt orange or avocado is less desirable than antique end tables from almost every other period. Some might even say that a 70s table is not an antique, it’s simply an eyesore. Yet rich walnut tables from this era have made a comeback.

When shopping for antique end tables it is important to keep in mind your current décor and any design goals you have about changing that decor. You also need to answer this question. Do you really want antique end tables or are you willing to settle for reproduction antique end tables?

Good antique end tables will set you back quite a bit of money, because of their antique status. Many people are searching the market, as well as auctions houses and estate sales for real antique end tables that they can bring into their home.

If the history of a piece is important too, then you may want to stick with the real thing. Generally you will get what you pay for, if you know antiques and know what you are looking for in antique end tables. But if you just like the style of sleek cabriole legs or sweet piecrust pedestals than reproduction pieces will be easier on your pocketbook. And it is easy to find many styles of antique or antique reproduction tables when you shop online. If you prefer to deal with local dealers, you should also make sure the dealer you are working with is reputable. If you can, do a few internet searches to see if there are any complaints against the person you are considering buying antique end tables from.

Once you find the antique end tables you think need to come home with you, you should look the piece over carefully and completely. There likely have been repairs made over the years. That would be natural for antique end tables that have been used generation after generation. Even the strongest pieces of furniture will have some problems over time. You need to make sure the repairs done on the pieces have been done well. You also want to make sure any repairs have not damaged these antique end tables or their value.

For those who do their homework and take a little extra time before they buy, beautiful antique end tables can be a piece of history in their home. Or have a little fun refinishing and painting an antique table to suit their taste.

Or you can go with reproduction antique end tables have the look of antiques without the higher price tag. Many of these items have been artificially distressed to look as if they have been passed down for several generations, but because they have not they are more reasonably priced. They are also made with modern lifestyles in mind as they are usually available in many colors and finishes to easily add a classic touch with modern flair to your home.



DANA

Sarika Kabra asked:


The antique Amish made furniture can never be “antique” in the real sense of the term. Time may make it old but as an old wine, Amish furniture betters with age. Good antique furniture that is coated with lasting finish will make for a better looking and durable article.

Antiques show your sense of appreciating the traditional values and if blended with modern makeover, it shows a person’s balanced approach to lifestyle. More than a style statement, a home with antique furniture reflects a balanced mindset of its residents.

Normally, antique furniture does not require much maintenance due to its unique architecture and content. Made with solid wood, and if handled with due care, the antiques will only demand periodic touching up so as to maintain their grace and elegance. To beautify and protect the wood, the antique furniture was, historically, finished with labor intensive but durable processes. A good finish on solid wooden furniture would last for a considerably longer duration of time making the antique furniture maintenance-friendly and long lasting.

The basic steps involved in finishing are the first coat, the build coat and the top coat. All these steps, and necessarily in this order, are common to all furniture finishing. The first coat seals and evens out differences in porosity and density. The build or body coats are the part of a finish that provide moisture resistance, durability and longevity to the coating. The top coat gives the desired aesthetic sheen, but the total look and character of the finish comes from the work put into the Base & Build coats.

Wax finish on wood is the most simple and effective mode of prolonging the life of your old furniture. A simple wax finishing gives the wood a soft and satiny look. This is the most preferred mode of finishing the wooden furniture. A major advantage of wax finish is its easy restorability. And the disadvantage is that it can stain easily, even by water.

Oil finishing is also a popular process and has been in use since time immemorial. Oil finishing is easy to apply with simple brushes. The oil seeps into the wood to give it a nice sheen. You may have to use lots of coats to get the desired sheen but its simple application makes oil one of the preferred finishing tools.

Another useful finishing mode is the traditional lacquer finish. Lacquer finish has all the qualities of a preferred finishing technique but sometimes, hazardous chemicals and solvents are used in the classical lacquer. This makes lacquer finishing a little unpopular these days. The modern artisans have developed water and alcohol based lacquer to provide safe and smooth finish to your favorite antique furniture.

Varnish finishing is rarely used on the antique furniture these days due to special skills required to attain perfection.

Plenty of options are available for the right finish for your precious antique furniture. The factors that must be taken into consideration before opting for either are the cost, durability and grace. Consult the experts in this regard since every antique furniture piece requires individual attention and no generalizations can be made as to what is the best finishing option for antique furniture. Antique Amish handcrafted furniture always remains in demand. Modern furniture is good, but it is the antique furniture that commands the greatest respect. And if you have antique furniture at home, nothing compares!



MORRIS