Antique Trader Blog - Antique Blog

Everyone likes shortcuts

Karen — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 16:53:51 GMT

... especially if it's a legitimate shortcut.

So here are shortcuts to some of our latest antiques news articles and features:

Man turns childhood home into classy antiques shop

Talking Sports: A hobby is born during the Great Depression

Ask Antique Trader: Unusual adjustable slag glass lamp a real find

Don’t be a Duncan Pfool: Remember to use furniture's correct vocabulary

Postcard prices realized vary at auction

SOFA Chicago sees increase of ‘young collectors’

Vintage video game sells for $5,250

— Posted by Karen Knapstein

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Question of the Week: Is a new look necessary?

Karen — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 22:23:49 GMT

Question of the Week:

As a shop owner, do you think it is important to rearrange your merchandise on a regular basis?

Send your replies to eric.bradley@fwmedia.com or to Letters to the Editor, c/o Antique Trader, 700 E. State St., Iola, WI 54945.

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• Find us on Twitter HERE.
• Find us on Facebook HERE.

• Visit the Antique Trader Web site HERE. Sign up for our FREE newsletters!

• If you really like what you see, get your very own subscription to Antique Trader HERE.

• Reference books available about your favorite collectibles HERE
• Antique Trader message boards HERE.
• Browse the Antique Trader Classifieds or place your FREE online ads HERE.

Do you collect a family namesake?

Karen — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 15:41:50 GMT

Here's the cover for the latest issue of Antique Trader, which hits the mail for subscribers today. (Click on the cover to visit AntiqueTrader.com)

What do you think? The cover feature is a subject near and dear to my heart :) ... now we'd like to hear your collecting story ...

Do you collect a family namesake?

If you’d like to share your story behind your own family-based collection, please send your story to editor Eric Bradley at 700 E. State St., Iola, WI 54945 or eric.bradley@fwmedia.com. Your story may be published in an upcoming issue.

— Posted by Karen Knapstein

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• Reference books available about your favorite collectibles HERE
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Question of the Week: Used gifts?

Karen — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 15:07:36 GMT

This week's Antique Trader question of the week ... what do you think?

Do you think it is tasteful and appropriate to give an antique or collectible as a gift or does the holiday season encourage you to purchase new items?

Send your replies to eric.bradley@fwmedia.com or to Letters to the Editor, c/o Antique Trader, 700 E. State St., Iola, WI 54945.

Or you can post a reply here on the Antique Trader blog, or HERE on the Antique Trader message boards.

Will eBay bounce back?

Karen — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 16:00:02 GMT

What the heck happened to eBay?

A few years ago many of us were complaining that finding “it” online was the final nail in the coffin of every brick and mortar shop around. A recent Associated Press report now states that eBay subsidiary PayPal could overtake the giant online marketplace in gross revenues by 2011. It’s not that surprising since eBay remains an online marketplace and PayPal has the capacity to be used everywhere for a variety of goods and services. The full story is on page 12.

But why isn’t eBay projected to grow in lock step with PayPal? After all, we who stood by the behemoth when it required us to accept PayPal for every transaction dutifully signed up and paid the fee for the right to do commerce on eBay.

The crippling snag is likely due to a slew of major site and policy changes that occurred at the same time as a calamitous worldwide financial meltdown.
During the past two years eBay has worked to develop new ways to claim their rightful share in the millions of transactions through its sites. EBay had every right to find new ways to make money from the site – business is business. However, the difficulty came when it started to over regulate the transactions and encourage sellers of antiques to “get in line” or get out.

What makes eBay most successful for sellers is the massive flow of site traffic. The extra bells and whistles added on to a seller’s listing are nice but they wouldn’t be worth squat if eBay didn’t attract so many millions of unique users. It’s what is separating other startups with feisty fee structures from becoming the No. 1 Web site for selling antiques and collectibles online. However, there is a downward trend at eBay. Just last month AuctionBytes.com’s Ina Steiner reported eBay’s August-September site traffic has hit a five-year low.

Many of my favorite dealers packed up and left – some in the middle of transactions. One situation I remember vividly: I was all set to buy a framed print when the seller told me in a response to one of my questions that he was no longer selling eBay … right now. He blamed the overly aggressive changes to feedback policies, among other changes. He hasn’t been back since.

So as PayPal breaks into new and growing markets and methods for making payments (some predict we’ll be using our cell phones to buy antiques at brick and mortar shops in just a few years) where is eBay supposed to grow?
Will the threat of losing its valuable site traffic encourage it to rethink some of its policy changes? Even if major changes were reversed – would they be enough to bring sellers back when the economy rebounds?

Eric Bradley
Editor

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Nov. 7 LA gallery event to benefit Linda Blair's animal rescue charity

Karen — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 22:14:52 GMT

LOS ANGELES - On Saturday, Nov. 7, Gallery Brown and internationally acclaimed pop artist Steve Kaufman will present "Art Goes To The Dogs," a benefit for film star Linda Blair's animal rescue charity, the World Heart Foundation. Blair will be present at the event, which will take place from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the gallery, located at 140 South Orlando Ave., Los Angeles.

Steve Kaufman, "the former assistant to Andy Warhol," will feature all his colorful images including Marilyn, The Rat Pack and Michael Jackson, plus homages to Lichtenstein, Picasso, Dali and van Gogh. See these famous icons come alive on canvas.

The Linda Blair World Heart Foundation is a non-profit, 501c3 charitable organization dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating abused animals from the harsh streets of the Los Angeles area and the overcrowded and overwhelmed city and county animal shelters.

The fundraiser is open to all, and there is no charge to attend. The evening starts with complimentary valet parking, followed by cocktails and hors d'oeuvres, and a silent auction that will feature Steve Kaufman's 36-inch-tall RCA Dog, one of a limited edition of 20. Additionally, 10% of all show sales will go directly to the Linda Blair World Heart Foundation.

LA art fans won't want to miss this exciting opportunity to meet both Steve Kaufman and Linda Blair on Saturday, Nov. 7. For further information, call 323-651-1956 or visit the gallery's Web site: http://gallerybrown.com.

Visit Linda Blair's World Heart Foundation online at www.lindablairworldheart.org.

Haunted antiques anyone?

Karen — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 18:21:02 GMT

Billy Bob Thornton avoids antiques because he believes they're haunted. How about you?

Do you own a haunted antique?

Do you have a piece of antique furniture in your house that isn’t...quite right?

Something you believe might be haunted?

If so, we want to hear your story.

Tell us what’s happening: Why do you think your furniture is haunted?

What started happening when you brought the item your home?

Does the piece have a history that leads you to believe it might be possessed?

Send your story to hauntedfurniture@gmail.com. Please include your name, state, email address and phone number.

(Photo courtesy Rare Victorian)

— Posted by Karen

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• Reference books available about your favorite collectibles HERE
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• Browse the Antique Trader Classifieds or place your FREE online ads HERE.

Question of the Week: Is it time to REALLY celebrate antiques?

Karen — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 20:52:08 GMT

What do you think?

Do you think it’s time America develops a National Antique Week such as it is in England, Nov. 23-30?

Send your replies to eric.bradley@fwmedia.com or to Letters to the Editor, c/o Antique Trader, 700 E. State St., Iola, WI 54945. Or post a message here on the Antique Trader blog or HERE on the Antique Trader message boards.

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• Reference books available about your favorite collectibles HERE
• Antique Trader message boards HERE.
• Browse the Antique Trader Classifieds or place your FREE online ads HERE.

History's Jackpot: A great place to start

Karen — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 16:27:10 GMT

I had the chance to read Craig Gottlieb's History’s Jackpot, Investing in Antique Collectibles over the weekend.

It's a brand new book that just came out in October, and Mr. Gottlieb has chosen to use Antique Trader to help get the word out, making him a valuable supporter for Antique Trader and AntiqueTrader.com.

I'm glad I read it. It has a lot of valuable information and advice about buying antique collectibles that will not only hold their value, but will increase with value over time.

[Read the full book review here.]

Just as important as being able to pick those items that will increase in value over time is knowing which items to stay away from. Mr. Gottlieb – and others – recommend you stay away from manufactured collectibles if you would like to recoup your investment. If you're buying that Franklin Mint plate because it speaks to you and you plan to treasure it for years, that's fine. Buy it and enjoy it. But even years down the line, you or your heirs probably won't be able to sell it for what you paid for it.

I found it to be valuable reading.

— Posted by Karen

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• Reference books available about your favorite collectibles HERE
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From the Editor: The collector’s quandary

Karen — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 20:21:56 GMT

There are several methods to liquidate a collection, ranging from an auction to an estate sale to selling to another collector. One method that’s come up recently in two high-profile cases involves the role of museums.

K*B Toys co-founder Donald Kaufman and his wife, Sally, who assembled what will forever be known as the largest collection of automotive toys, considered a museum but decided collectors would take care of the items as their cherished objects.

So, too, did Dennis and Terri LaMothe consider a few museums to house their landmark mesh handbag and vintage couture collection.

When the Orlando couple interviewed a few museums, nonewould guarantee the collection would not be sold in the future if the museum ran out of space.

Both instances are examples of the quandary collectors may find themselves as they try to liquidate their collections. For both the Kaufmans and the LaMothes, the natural obligation they felt to preserve the history and years of research they invested in their collection made a museum a logical choice.

Museums are indeed the backbone of a country’s heritage and play an active role in the current hobby and research. Imagine how shallow and poor America would be without the Smithsonian Institution. What would the scholarship of American folk art be without the work of Winterthur or New York’s American Folk Art Museum? But museums can also be subject to politically charged boards, poor collection-care standards and vulnerable to economic downturns that decimate endowments.

Personally, I have always viewed collectors as a type of historical militia, a force comprised of ordinary people who share knowledge and preserve precious objects. Collectors are constantly engaging in new research and sharing this information in new ways.

As collectors from all levels now take stock to downsize, they face a world of decisions. These decisions are deeply personal — there is not a single solution that fits everyone.

What do you think? What role should America’s museums play as a growing number of collectors dispense with their collections?

Post a reply here on the blog, HERE on the Antique Trader message boards, or send a reply to eric.bradley@fwmedia.com.

Eric Bradley
Editor

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• Reference books available about your favorite collectibles HERE
• Antique Trader message boards HERE.
• Browse the Antique Trader Classifieds or place your FREE online ads HERE.

Antique article shortcuts

Karen — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 13:57:56 GMT

Here's an easy way to get your antique news: click on the links below to read the articles:

Antique Trader breaks new ground with new “Collecting Depression Glass” online seminar

Portraits and pistols earn top prices at Garth’s

Liberace’s cousin’s estate draws standing room only

This Emilio Pucci designer dress with matching panties was sold at Liberace's cousin's estate auction in Wittenberg, Wis. Photo by Eric Bradley.

Brimfield completes Fiftieth Year Celebration

Jenkins Shows draws 20,000 for Springfield Extravaganza

Toy world mourns passing of Donald Kaufman

Depression glass collecting continues to evolve

Art Markets: Gallery label prompts investigation of attic find

Ask Antique Trader: Cheers! Robj liquor decanters worth $900

Posted by Karen

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• Reference books available about your favorite collectibles HERE
• Antique Trader message boards HERE.
• Browse the Antique Trader Classifieds or place your FREE online ads HERE.

Stock market hits 10,000! Time to sell your collectibles?

Karen — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 23:19:43 GMT

The stock market hit 10,000 today, a milestone not seen since Oct. 2008. Over the course of the last year, collectors have invested lots of dollars in big-ticket items to protect their investments. Is it time to sell, buy or hold?

Question of the Week:

Have you seen items in your collection lose value during the last few years? If so, are you tempted to sell to recoup your investment?

Share your story at atnews@fwmedia.com or eric.bradley@fwmedia.com or in care of Antique Trader, 700 E. State St., Iola, WI 54945.

Okemo Antiques Show turns 16

Karen — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 19:31:40 GMT

It's nice to see shows hanging in there — especially shows that have been around for more than a decade and don't show any sign of giving up ... not only not giving up, but promising "to be the best ever."

I'm talking about the Okemo Antiques Show at the Okemo Mountain Resort in Ludlow, Vt.

Pat and Don Clegg of East Berlin, Pa., who promote and manage the show as Abbott House Associates, established their antiques business nearly three decades ago, specializing in American painted furniture and related items, early textiles, early lighting and wildfowl decoys. They also exhibit at about 10 shows each year, one of which is the Okemo Antiques Show.

The Okemo Show is one of five shows that make up Vermont Antiques Week in early October each year.

Among the exhibitors at this 16th incarnation of the Okemo Antiques Show: Jeff Cherry and Kass Hogan (Cherry Gallery), Lewis Scranton, Tom and Bev Longacre, Mario Pollo, Chuck White and Lynne Weaver.

The details: The celebration kicks off with a wine and hors d'oeuvres preview party from 3-6 pm on Oct. 2. The show continues on Oct. 3 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Additional information can be obtained by calling Abbott House Associates at 877-211-1877.

Hang in there!

Images courtesy Abbott House Associates.

Posted by Karen

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• Reference books available about your favorite collectibles HERE
• Antique Trader message boards HERE.
• Browse the Antique Trader Classifieds or place your FREE online ads HERE.

Puchsteins take full control of West Palm Beach shows

Karen — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 18:21:21 GMT

Puchsteins take full control of West Palm Beach Shows

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. – Bill and Kay Puchstein have taken over as the sole owners of West Palm Beach Antiques Festival for the upcoming season.

The Puchstein’s purchased eight show enterprise from dmg world media last December in partnership with promoters Jim and Yvonne Tucker of Missouri. The Tuckers have decided the schedule of these eight shows was more than they were willing to do together with nine shows of their company, Antique Shows of Florida.

“The West Palm Beach Antiques Festival was much more than Yvonne and I had envisioned,” Jim Tucker said in a telephone interview. “We live in Missouri as our primary home with the nine shows concentrated in two and a half months, that’s enough.”

West Palm Beach Antiques Festival is the first weekend of each month, with their Spectacular in February hosting about 800 dealers.

The Puchstein's, who also live in Florida, also run a dozen other smaller shows through the winter months in the central region of the state.

The Puchstein’s website for details of West Palm Beach Antiques Festival is www.wpbaf.com and take calls at 941 697 7475. For their other shows go to www.floridaantiqueshows.com. The Tucker’s website is www.antiqueshowsofflorida.com or call them at 941 408 3576.

-By Tom O’Hara, posted by Eric Bradley

Ellen Schroy to host online Depression Glass conference

Karen — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 16:12:26 GMT

Collect.com and Antique Trader are teaming up to produce an online conference on Depression Glass. Hosted by expert Ellen Schroy, the conference is scheduled for 8 p.m. EST Nov. 5.

"Once a popular prize found in oatmeal boxes, and used by movie houses and gas stations as a free gift with purchase, the history of Depression glass is as diverse as the pieces themselves. Learn the history behind the companies, commonly reproduced patterns and why the hobby of Depression Glass collecting is getting bigger every year."

Schroy is the nationally known author of Warman's Depression Glass, 5th edition. She has been the longtime editor of Warman's Antiques & Collectibles, Warman's Depression Glass and numerous other antiques and collectables books. In addition to serving as an appraiser at antiques events, Schroy frequently appears on radio shows across the USA.

Click here to register.

dmg world media sells AntiqueWeek, three others in deal finalized late last week

Karen — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 17:30:27 GMT

KNIGHTSTOWN, Ind. – In a deal finalized late last week, dmg world media sold its Knightstown, Ind., publications, including its flagship antiques and collectibles newspaper AntiqueWeek. Included in the sale are publications AntiqueWest, The Auction Exchange and Collectors News and Farm World, billed as “the largest farm newspaper in the Midwest.”

The new owner is MidCountry Media, Inc., which has ties to the Mayhill family who founded AntiqueWeek in 1968 and sold it along with its other titles to dmg in 2000. dmg world media is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Daily Mail and General Trust plc, one of the largest and media companies in the United Kingdom.

Talks of a sale surfaced in October 2008 when employees were informed the Indiana titles were under contract to be sold. Since then, dmg has steadily sold segments of its antiques and collectibles businesses.

It sold the London-based newspaper Antiques Trade Gazette in October 2008. In June it sold four of the biggest antiques and collectors' fairs in the UK. In July, dmg sold back the Florida show known as “Palm Beach - America's International Fine Art & Antiques Fair” to its original owners, the Lester family.

In the case of Antiques Trade Gazette, it was employees who purchased the publication. The UK fairs (Newark, Ardingly, Shepton Mallet and Detling) are owned by a group, which includes a former dmg executive who oversaw the original acquisition in 1994.

AntiqueWeek is a national publication with The Auction Exchange and Collectors News focuses on the Great Lakes region and AntiqueWest focuses on the West Coast.

dmg owns The Avignon (France) International Trade Fair, The Las Vegas Antique Jewelry & Watch Show, The Miami Beach Antique Jewelry & Watch Show, The New York Antique Jewelry and Watch Show, The Original Miami Beach Antique Show and the The Washington DC Antique, Art and Jewelry Show, which debuts Oct. 15-18.

dmg also publishes more than 40 related magazines, newspapers, directories and market reports and employs 700 people worldwide.

-posted by Eric Bradley

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• Reference books available about your favorite collectibles HERE
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Here’s to the antique misfits

Karen — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 22:08:59 GMT

At first they looked like elaborate toothpicks or something from a Brothers Grimm fairy tale. They were all different shapes and sizes and – one was even in the shape of a hand, while others were decorated with elaborate carvings.

The curiosities were part of a diverse collection of bride sticks. The 100 or so sticks are a part of the famous Joseph and Lilian Shapiro Collection, and featured in an Oct. 8 Dan Morphy auction. Skillfully hand-carved and painted, the rarely seen decorative objects date from the early 19th century to around the turn of the 20th century. Each was a custom design, to be given as a gift to a new bride. While not meant for practical use, they replicate the plainer forked sticks that women used for pushing down laundry into tubs of boiling water.

It’s the offbeat and obscure items, such as the Shapiros’ bride sticks, that are my favorite part of learning about antiques. Usually, the items are not particularly valuable; the bride sticks are expected to sell for between $50 and $100 each. Don’t get me wrong, I have a strong appreciation of antique furniture, prints, coin operated machines and advertising. However, there’s just something alluring (maybe even charming) about those oddball items most people don’t much care for.

Much to the dismay of my wife, my wallet seems to be a magnet for these misfit antiques. On a recent shopping trip, I spotted a curious machine in a vendor’s booth: it was cast iron and sported seven different pulleys.

“It kind of looks like a circus wagon,” I told my wife, both describing its original paint and doing my best to get her remotely interested in yet another of my weird purchases – this one even larger than usual. The seller told me it was a hay trolley. They were used in the time before elevators to lift bailed or loose hay up into barn lofts. The trolleys are large, weighing about 35 pounds and are sometimes decorated with ornate cast iron.

They are offbeat, for sure, but are gaining some respect. A few farming museums devoted to antique farming technology have recently opened in the Midwest and all feature the decorative and trusty hay trolley. The one I found has a new home as a sculpture on our kitchen desk, which for us is really the base of a Hoosier cupboard.

Learning about new things is the most important benefit of being a collector. Everyone who ventures out in search of antiques always brings their curiosity. Expanding your experience of the rich and diverse world of antiques helps you better spend your money. Plus it’s also a neat trick whenever you can pull a little-known fact out of your noggin at precisely the right time.

So go out and look for those unusual items no one else seems to notice. Just remember, it helps to decide where you’re going to put your misfit before you bring it up to your spouse.

— posted by Eric Bradley

From Sept. 30, 2009 issue of Antique Trader magazine

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• Reference books available about your favorite collectibles HERE
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Question of the Week: Weird collections

Karen — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 21:58:27 GMT

In this week's Editor's Note, I wrote about off-beat collections such those offered by Dan Morphy at his upcoming Oct. 8-10 auction. I have known Dan for years and he is a consummate professional who is deeply passionate and driven to learn more about about high-quality antiques and collectibles. He, too, is drawn to the rare and curious.

That's probably why Joseph and Lilian Shapiro picked him to sell their wonderful collection of Americana and folk art and which includes an interesting collection of bride sticks.

This leads us to today's question of the week:

"What are some of the most strange and unusual antiques or collectibles you’ve ever seen people collect?"

Send your experiences of weird collections to Question of the Week, eric.bradley@fwmedia.com, ATnews@fwmedia.com or 700 E. State St., Iola, WI 54945. Or post your reply HERE on the Antique Trader message board.

Spot your shop in the Antique Trader Regionals

Karen — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 01:39:33 GMT

It's been a month since we launched our new regional focus. In every issue we reserve up to eight pages to provide you a survey of market trends and tips and some of the personalities that make each region unique. We're pleased with the results and we hope you are too.

The regional section is a great way to show off your shop, show, group mall or online antiques business. If you are willing to snap a few pictures and send them to our offices, we are willing to publish them for our readers.

Likewise, readers may send photos or comments to share the inspiration behind their collections. If you live in Zanesville, Ohio, we want to know why you collect the area's wonderful pottery. Our readers appreciate learning about every sort of collection or group of inventory no matter how large or eclectic.

Please send your comments or photos to Antique Trader, 700 E State St., Iola, WI 54945 or ATnews@fwmedia.com.

Here are some of our past Regional focus features:

Regional Round Up: ‘Circus capital’ also offers antiques

Antiques Regional Roundup: Sisters open antiques shop to honor late father

Regional Roundup: What’s going on in the West

Regional Roundup: East

If you have questions about the Regional focus, contact eric.bradley@fwmedia.com.

From the Editor: Haggling shouldn't end badly

Karen — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 21:41:01 GMT

Where has our summer gone? Too quickly our sand beaches have given way to the first glimpses of red leaves.

I certainly hope you enjoyed your summer. Here in Wisconsin where Antique Trader is produced our summers seem relatively short due to our three distinct seasons and bitter winters. The summer was packed with all the best the outdoor show and auction season has to offer.

It is always a good day when you can spend it walking and chatting with vendors and fellow collectors.

However, sometimes things overheard in a vendor’s booth don’t always put you in a buying mood. One instance in particular happened early in the summer and I have thought about it often on the trail.

A young couple was standing in a lovely flea market booth filled with a pleasing mix of both expensive and common glassware and porcelain. The lady spied a pair of candlesticks and picked one up. She motioned for her partner to move closer and check them out. The way they were chatting about the sticks and how they were looking at the details gave away the fact that they were not dealers. The way they were dressed indicated they had probably stopped by the flea after attending a Sunday service.

“What is your best price on these?” the young lady said holding the sticks up.
The vendor responded simply: “$40.”

“Would you take $35?” was the young lady’s response.

The vendor looked her in the eye and said loudly, “How do you expect me to make my rent if all you customers keep asking for more and more discounts? This business is hard enough.”

More than one pair of eyebrows was raised. Perhaps it was a rare bit of weakness on the vendor’s part, however the response was not what I’d expect from any business owner addressing a counter offer. Regrettably, the response is not rare.

More and more as I visit shops and shows, the rate of dealers and sellers complaining to customers about the current economic climate is reaching a fevered pitch. It’s as though shop owners feel obligated to inform their customers that they are no longer making any money at buying and selling antiques.

As we head into the fall and winter indoor show season, all buyers and sellers should understand the economic hardship is affecting both sides of a transaction. Buyers as well as sellers are feeling the pinch.

The flea market vendor insulted by the young lady’s counter offer could have politely responded: “Sorry, I’m going to try to get $40.” That would have sufficed.

We need every new collector or casual buyer we can get. Turning them off when they are young may eliminate a lifelong buyer from the marketplace.
And what fun would our summers be without flea markets?

— Posted by Eric Bradley

Feel free to send your comments to eric.bradley@fwmedia.com or to Letters to the Editor, c/o Antique Trader, 700 E. State St., Iola, WI 54945.

Holt-Howard, Red Wing, toleware, the list goes on ...

Karen — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 14:34:31 GMT

It took me a while to get around to blogging about my weekend, but I'm finally here! (even though we're fast-approaching another)

I can only hope all of your weekends as pleasant as mine. Any time I can squeeze in a flea market over the weekend makes me happy ... especially if the market has a lot of dealers with a lot of great antiques.

We made it up to Zurko's Shawano flea market once again on Aug. 22, and what a great day. The weather was a bit cool, but the vendors were out in force. (Of all the times I've been up to the Shawano market, I think last Saturday's was the strongest showing yet.) I was tempted time and time again by crockery of various sizes and shapes, some cute Holt-Howard kittens (even though their noisemakers were missing), and beautiful cast-iron cookware ... some of it old, all of it cleaned and seasoned.

I don't know about any of you, but I prefer to cook in cast iron. And old, properly seasoned cast iron is the best! A few years ago I bought two fabulous bail-handled cast iron pots from my uncle, who was trimming down his estate. I cook in them every chance I get. When I use them, I always remember him and my aunt. I'm so very glad that I have something tangible and useful that I can remember them by.

Of course I had to stop and read through book titles at every opportunity, too ... you just never know what you'll miss if you don't!

Now if I can just get to Princeton and Columbus! (If you're ever anywhere near it, don't miss the Columbus Antique Mall ... but plan on spending a few hours there ... It's HUGE!)

Are there any antique shows in your weekend plans? Which ones? What's your favorite show ever?

— Posted by Karen

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Congrats sweepstakes winners

Karen — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 19:07:21 GMT

We recorded more than 10,000 entries from May-July for the Antique Trader Treasure Hunt Sweepstakes. The monthly sweepstakes conducted on www.antiquetrader.com offers free books, collectibles and keepsakes for readers of our print edition and Web site.

Congratulations to our winners:

Fan Bird Carving Sweeptakes

Grand Prize winner Alicia Wallace, Stafford, Va., won an authentic fan bird carving. Four runner ups won commemorative post card sets: Jacqui Haddock of Temple, Texas; Christy Curran of Equinunk, Pa.; Robert Lorenz of McKees Rocks, Pa., and Tony Tannahill of Fairfield, Ill.

Holt-Howard Collectibles

Sharon Hutson of Batavia, Ohio, won a copy of the book Price Guide to Holt-Howard Collectibles and Related Ceramicware of the 50s & 60s by Walter Dworkin (Krause Publications).

Dames, Dolls & Delinquents

Grand prize winner Steven Muir of Bellevue, Wash., won a copy of the book Dames, Dolls and Delinquents: A Collector’s Guide to Sexy Pulp Fiction Paperbacks by Gary Lovisi and a set of notecards from Heritage Auction’s recent sale of the Charles Martignette estate July 16. Runner up Karen Stanley of Fort Smith, Ark., won a copy of Lovisi’s Antique Trader Collectible Paperback Price Guide and a set of notecards.

The sweepstakes for August and September is sponsored by the Butter Pat Patter Association. The association has provided three Buffalo Pottery butter pats as prizes for three lucky winners. The Art Deco-inspired designs are valued at $25 each.

To enter the sweepstakes, visit www.antiquetrader.com and click on Contests.

Weekend wasn't 'wonderful,' but it was productive

Karen — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 22:31:46 GMT

Going into last weekend I was optimistic that I finally had a weekend that I could do whatever I wanted. I didn't have any set plans, mind you, but I had several options that I was narrowing down: estate auction opportunities on both Saturday and Sunday, flea market opportunities on both Saturday and Sunday, or knuckling down and starting to go through my attic treasures. Endless possibilities!

Alas, such freedom just wasn't meant to be. Getting saddled with another youngster - this one younger and higher maintenance than my own - for the weekend knocked out the possibilities that had been jingling around in my head since late Wednesday evening.

Needless to say, I was cranky. I'm usually pretty easy going, but when decisions like that are made for me, I have a hard time keeping from "losing it." After all, time is one of the few things you can't get more of.

But I made the best of my situation and got some much-needed organizing done. I hadn't gone through my purchases (mostly box lots) from the last estate auction I attended, which was piled up in my garage and taunted me each and every time I went in there; I decided to get that taken care of so I could go to the next one with a clear conscience.

What fun it turned out to be!

I found some great old advertising pieces in the boxes of sewing rick-rack, as well as some fantastic old sewing and mending tools. (Have you ever noticed that the boxes from matches ... simple little stick matches ... are nowhere near as appealing as they were 50 years ago?)

Do any of you know when manufacturers stopped making all-metal children's "safety" scissors? You know, the ones with the rounded tips ... those were a curious find that I'll have to do some research on ...

I went through box after box of old cookware, cut glass, holiday decor, and so on. Tackling it like that made me have to decide then and there what I would keep and what would have to go.

I'm keeping an eclectic (but pristine condition) variety of bowls; I decided I really didn't need the old pots, pans, or another graniteware roaster ... those can "go"; I've got to keep all the little sewing do-dads and notions; and the best thing of all: I'm happy with all my decisions. I believe having the weeks to think everything over helped me make good, solid decisions as to what I would keep and what I would get rid of.

I'm still undecided about the Fire King Copper Tint pieces though. They're perfect! And they still have the stickers! ... but what am I going to do with them?!

Perhaps with more time and thought the decision will be easier.

What do you all think? Do you take your time and mull it over when you're going through your collections or auction purchases? Or do you make shoot-from-the-hip decisions and just live with those decisions? Do you regret those decisions later?

Post a reply or drop us a line and let us know ...

— Posted by Karen

And more recent antiques-related headlines:

Karen — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 22:32:05 GMT

On Pawn Stars it’s all business (my favorite!)

Regional Roundup: East

NY State malls helping shoppers justify purchases

French doll shatters world auction record (still hot news)

Collector selling Archie #1 as marriage proposal looms - Tom Michael analyzes Archie through the years ... fascinating, in-depth analysis of the development of "The Mirth of a Nation."

AT Inbox: Reader seeks help identifying father's jardiniere

Ask Antique Trader: Driftwood furniture first popular in the ’40s

To pawn or not to pawn

— Posted by Karen Knapstein

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• Reference books available about your favorite collectibles HERE
• Antique Trader message boards HERE.
• Browse the Antique Trader Classifieds or place your FREE online ads HERE.

Antique headline shortcuts anyone?

Karen — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 22:24:44 GMT

Antiques trade mourns icon’s passing

Springfield Antiques Show turns great finds

Dealers show rare and unusual items at Nashville glass show

Antique show fund raiser earns nearly $4,000 for animal shelter- (I thought this was a great idea!)

All Saints Show highly praised by dealers

Baltimore Summer Show: Designed to dazzle

Guyette & Schmidt, Inc. summer decoy auction grosses $1.3 million

Hal Hunt to auction the contents of famous Alabama antebellum home Sept. 5

Historic rifle from the Battle of Little Big Horn offered at Kaminski’s August auction

Seldom-seen antique maps, atlases offered in Old World Auctions’ online sale

Are you an Antique Trader fan?

Karen — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 14:50:26 GMT

If you are, why not "show us some love" on Facebook and become an "official" fan.

Here's a peek at the Antique Trader feed on Facebook:

Antique Trader on Facebook

Are antique shops really just pawn shops?

Karen — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 15:59:46 GMT

A troubling story out of Louisiana this morning got me thinking about a battle that took place across California a few years ago.

The News Star reports the Monroe City, La., city council will introduce an ordinance next week requiring antique shop owners to register and report their inventory like pawn shops are required to do.

An excerpt:

Police Chief Ron Schleuter said including jewelers and antique shop owners in the law, which is already a part of state law, would help law enforcement catch criminals. With the price of gold on the rise, the chief said thieves are taking gold items and selling them to the jewelers and antique shops at a fraction of what they are worth.

Schleuter said a Monroe resident recently purchased 16 gold coins as an investment, and 13 of them were taken from his residence. Ten of the 13 coins were recovered at jewelry stores and an antique shop.

In Monroe City, pawn shops report descriptions of their inventory and secure identification of those wanting to sell their items to help police track down stolen goods. If passed after a public hearing at the council's Aug. 11 meeting, the new law will require the same of jewelry stores and antique shops.

Although the law's intention may be to protect the public, this bureaucracy will shut down dealers and snuff out tax revenue.

Can you imagine a dealer amassing a mountain of paperwork on their inventory? Can you imagine while taking a photocopying everyone's driver's license that walked through the door with something to sell?

No? Neither can I.

Why? Because proposed laws like this never distinguish between a spoon-carved dresser and a diamond ring.

Laws like this step on the free market principals that allow dealers and collectors to quickly and easily trade items. If Monroe City is really worried about theft, perhaps they should regulate whom in their county posts items on online auction sites? I bet most stolen goods are now fenced online rather than small shops across town.

Why make Monroe City, La., dealers pay the price?

-posted by Eric Bradley

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• Reference books available about your favorite collectibles HERE
• Antique Trader message boards HERE.
• Browse the Antique Trader Classifieds or place your FREE online ads HERE.

Have you entered the Treasure Hunt this month

Karen — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 18:20:00 GMT

The end of July is almost here, meaning the end of the July Antique Trader sweepstakes.

In case you missed it, the July Treasure Hunt Sweepstakes is featuring Dames, Dolls & Delinquents and the Antique Trader® Collectible Paperback Price Guide as prizes.

AND, in addition to those books, we're giving away some beautiful blank note cards (graciously provided by Heritage Auction Galleries) that feature illustration art from the Charles Martignette collection.

Make sure you visit http://sweepstakes.antiquetrader.com today and enter for your chance to win ... you'll be glad you did!

If you haven't already done so, you want to sign up on the Antique Trader home page (http://www.antiquetrader.com) for the free e-newsletters so you get fresh news and notifications delivered right to your in-box ... including when we launch new sweepstakes and contests.

— Posted by Karen Knapstein

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• Reference books available about your favorite collectibles HERE
• Antique Trader message boards HERE.
• Browse the Antique Trader Classifieds or place your FREE online ads HERE.

Question of the Week: Tell us about your favorite rummage sale find

Karen — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 22:16:18 GMT

Big or small – what is your favorite rummage sale or yard sale discovery?
Send the story behind your most memorable find by Labor Day, Sept. 7, and our judges will award the best story a copy of the 2010 Warman's Antique & Collectibles Price Guide, with bonus DVD.

Send your stories to eric.bradley@fwmedia.com or to Found Treasure, c/o Antique Trader magazine, 700 E. State St., Iola, WI 54945.

Fun forum thread: Supply the caption

Karen — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 13:09:59 GMT

We've recently started a new forum thread in the Antique Trader forums. It's just for fun. And that's all.

Did the pic of the baby doll with the bug on its face leave an impression on you? That's the pic we chose as the first in a series that we're going to post that you can reply to and supply the cutline.

Or, if you like, start your own thread in the "Just For Fun" forum and upload your own image that you think would be fun to share.

Here's the one we posted: http://forum.antiquetrader.com/tm.aspx?m=234

Check out the captions that have already been posted and post your own if you're so inclined ...

— Posted by Karen Knapstein

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• Reference books available about your favorite collectibles HERE
• Antique Trader message boards HERE.
• Browse the Antique Trader Classifieds or place your FREE online ads HERE.

January Pier show added to Stella 2010 antiques show calendar

Karen — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 15:34:53 GMT

After a two-year hiatus, Americana & Antiques at the Piers has recently returned to the calendar of events produced by Stella Show Mgmt. Co. designed to coincide with Antiques Week in New York, the 2010 show is scheduled for Jan. 23-24, 2010.

“We are very pleased to have this show again,” said Dorothy Stella, president of Stella Shows. “It has been sorely missed by our exhibitors and our customers. The piers were not available in January for several years. Now that dates have changed, we can have Pier 92 for Antiques Week in New York again.”

There is a wide variety of antiques events on the Stella Show Mgmt. Co. 2009/10 calendar including Antiques & Design in the Hamptons, Aug. 14-16; Country Living Fair, Sept. 18-20; the Modern Show, Oct. 16-18.

Penn Auctions wins six NAA marketing awards this week

Karen — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 15:31:49 GMT

The National Auctioneers Association has awarded Rich Penn Auctions six different first place marketing awards at its annual convention and conference in Overland Park, Kan. this week.

The annual competition is presented July 13-18 in partnership with USA TODAY and this year judges reviewed over a thousand entries.

Penn Auctions was named first place in the categories of color catalog for antique auctions, color catalog for liquidation auctions and color printed material for automotive auctions as well as for online catalogs for both antique auctions and liquidation auctions and for black and white newspaper advertising.

Penn’s company specializes in auctions of country store, drug store, petroliana and advertising antiques.

Pa. dealers launch street fair to promote antiques

Karen — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 15:21:55 GMT

Don't miss this on Saturday. Antiques dealers and enthusiasts in Quakertown, Pa., are banding together Saturday, July 18, to launch a street festival around collecting and enjoying antiques and collectibles.

“Rock the Corners” features food, line dancing and “bargains galore” for collectors and casual buyers. The day long event is scheduled for the corner of East Broad Street and Hellertown Avenue (Routes 212 and 313).

Owners of the shops Antiques at 200 East and East Broad Antiques are holding open houses and 30 additional dealers will set up exhibits. Appraisal expert Ellen Schroy, will hold a signing of her latest book Carnival Glass, published by Krause Publications, as well as provide free appraisals.

Toy train expert Joel Lazarus will also be on hand to provide free appraisals and oversee on-site repairs. Quakertown has about 8,900 residents and is located 30 miles north of Philadelphia.

Antique auction news: some highlights and previews

Karen — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 15:40:36 GMT

Theriault's is saving its fireworks for July 12 - some gorgeous and seldom-seen dolls

Largest sale ever planned for Morphy’s, Aug. 13-15

Skinner Sci-Tech auction, July 25

International interest makes strong showing at Alderfer auction

Ruger papers top the sale bill at Cowan’s Auction

Robert Edward Auctions celebrates most successful baseball card auction in collecting history at $10M

Signed rosewood Victorian bedroom suite brings $51,700

Isn't this an absolutely gorgeous bedroom suite?

The buyer got a good deal on it ...

Here they are: more article links

Karen — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 15:33:57 GMT

Newest articles:

Pixie-flair: Holt-Howard’s Pixieware ‘fad’ survives 50 years

Served up fresh: splendid salmon labels ... check these out! They are truly marketing ART for can-side display. Beautiful & colorful!

Collecting without cash - we'd love to hear your swap stories - successful or not. What works? What doesn't?

Can labels brought art to the aisles

Ask Antique Trader: Gargoyle hitching post finials are unusual

Milk’s letters making big news - Harvey Milk, that is ...

Antiques & Collectibles National Association announces New Orleans convention dates for 2010

Let us know what you like - and what you don't!

You can post a reply here on the blog or e-mail us: eric.bradley@fwmedia.com or karen.knapstein@fwmedia.com.

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• Visit the Antique Trader Web site HERE. Sign up for our FREE newsletters!
• If you really like what you see, get your own subscription to Antique Trader HERE.

• Reference books available about your favorite collectibles HERE
• Antique Trader message boards HERE.
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• Find us on Twitter HERE.

Now's the time to invest

Karen — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 22:24:06 GMT

This week's issue had a few articles devoted to 'affordable' collections as well as a column on how to collect without cash.
The two themes were the subject of this week's editor's note. They reminded me of our current economic crisis and how it should not deter veteran and novice collectors from getting out and enjoying the hobby.

You can’t escape the economy no matter how hard you try. Unemployment. Rising prices. Store closings. It’s to be expected that people are worried more about their mortgages than they are about adding a new gem to their collection.

This week’s issue is devoted to the idea that a quality and interesting collection does not require a seven-figure bankroll. Now more than ever collectors need to be reminded that the precious objects in their home are a source of escape, education and excitement.

As Mark Roeder explains in his column on page 14, to be a collector is not synonymous with being a ‘horder’. Being a collector means to be inquisitive, a researcher or an aficionado of fine design, among other things. Nor should ‘affordable’ be translated as ‘cheap.’ Many important collections were started with rather modest means. Important collections are built by people willing to spend time learning about their collection and preparing for the next purchase. That means reading reference books, talking with experts and inspecting items you already own.

“Most are so busy seeking out new additions that they don’t pay attention to what is right there in front of them,” Roeder writes. “Enjoying what you already have can not only be just as enjoyable as adding a new piece.”

Rearranging your collection or putting others away to make room for long forgotten treasures is a fulfilling way to get reacquainted with your items. Everyone has an item or two (or more) that could use a bit more research. Perhaps it’s time to weed out a few items.

Our cover this week focuses on two diverse, yet similar, collecting areas that are seeing ‘green shoots’ among collectors.

Nostalgic ceramicware items from the 50s and 60s can be found at most every antiques show, country auction or flea market. As you’ll see in Walter Dworkin’s piece, excerpted from his book “Price Guide to Holt-Howard Collectibles,” every collector can afford many vintage pieces. While it is true values for Holt-Howard’s Pixieware collectibles are on the rise, an afternoon at any one of the nation’s larger flea markets or antiques malls will result in a find. Remember to take Dworkin’s advice when shopping: Never pay top dollar for a chipped or damaged collectible.

Melody Amsel-Arieli’s article on canning labels is an interesting look at the history and art of a relatively new collecting genre. Most labels can be found in every price range and a majority of them are valued at $10 or less.

Canning labels are just now entering an era of their own. Amsel-Arieli writes that collectors are charmed by their beauty or historical value. Like vintage ceramicware, can labels can be found here and there however an Internet search will generate many more leads.

No matter what your collecting passion may be, don’t let a temporary economic downturn steal your enjoyment in antiques and collectibles.

Get out and enjoy the hunt.

Eric Bradley
Editor

Any press is good press, right?

Karen — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 13:44:16 GMT

Can you remember a week where antiques and collectibles dominated the headlines as they did the week of June 21-27?

Television, newspapers, blogs and the Internet were buzzing about major news stories that involved the value – or perceived value – of antiques and collectibles. First, Michael Jackson’s untimely death took his fan base and the rest of the world by surprise. Talk quickly changed from what killed the King of Pop to what will become of his estate – including his three children and millions of dollars worth of investments he made in antiques and collectibles. Jackson was a well-known collector and accumulator of fine antiques and show biz memorabilia. Scenes of Jackson practically emptying a Las Vegas antiques shop in a seven-figure shopping spree was rehashed in news reports following his death. The Associated Press reported Jackson’s estate owns about $20 million worth of antiques, old cars and “other property.”

Does even the most experienced dealer or collector even realize what $20 million worth of antiques and vintage cars would look like? Imagine your favorite mega-antiques show and estimate the retail value of everything on the floor. You would have to include part of the building itself to reach $20 million.

Jackson liked owning unusual things – but he also made some shrewd investments such as the catalog of songs by The Beatles, among others, which is purportedly worth hundreds of millions of dollars. Time will tell if his fans are just as shrewd after scouring the Web in the days after his death to buy all manner of Jackson collectibles.

The second big story was dramatically smaller in dollars compared to Jackson’s estate, but it may create a comfy nest egg for its owner. Antiques Roadshow stopped in Raleigh, N.C., on June 27 as part of its 2009 taping season.

Appraiser James Callahan noticed something worthy of more attention in one woman’s collection of Chinese jade carvings. He put the collection’s value at about $1.07 million, a record discovery in the 13-year history of the American version of the British TV hit. The owner’s father purchased the collection during the 1930s and ‘40s while stationed by the military in China. Taylor expected the set to be worth about $10,000. The collection includes four pieces of Chinese jade and celadon from the Chien Lung Dynasty (1736-1795). Special marks on the bottom of a large bowl indicate it was carved for an emperor.

Antiques Roadshow appraisers review about 18,000 items at each stop. Show producers told media outlets that about 34,000 people applied for tickets to the taping but only 6,400 were picked. The $1.07 million appraisal will be shown on Jan. 4 as part of a new season of Antiques Roadshow.

If there truly is no such thing as bad press, let’s hope the week’s events – both fortunate and unfortunate – encourages a new generation to look at antiques and collectibles in a different light.

Eric Bradley
Editor

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Antiques Roadshow find shatters value record

Karen — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 21:28:33 GMT

One lucky woman's find shattered the previous record for an item appraised during an Antiques Roadshow stop in Raleigh, N.C. last weekend. A collection of Chinese jade was valued at possibly more than $1 million.

Show publicist Erika Denn says the four pieces of jade from the period of 1736 to 1795 was valued at $710,000 to $1.07 million. That breaks the previous record of $500,000 set last year in Palm Springs, Calif., for a painting by abstract expressionist Clyfford Still.

An unidentified woman from eastern North Carolina owns the jade, which she brought to the show early Saturday morning.

The show also drew 34,000 requests for tickets, besting the previous record of 29,000 tickets for a show in San Jose, Calif., that will be held later this summer. Denn says 6,400 tickets were distributed in Raleigh.

Antiques Roadshow is scheduled to make four more stops this summer in Madison, Wis., July 11; Denver, July 25; Phoenix, Aug. 1 and San Jose, Calif., on Aug. 15.

-AP

Time running out for free listing in Industry Directory

Karen — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 21:53:37 GMT

If you haven't done so already you owe it to your business to submit a free listing in the 2009 Antique Trader Antiques & Collectibles Industry Directory.

Inside we list contact information for hundreds of auction houses, show promoters, shops and malls to create a free and trusted reference guide for you and thousands of other collectors and trades people. Did I mention a listing was free? Click here to download the form.

Need a few more reasons to submit a free listing?

Every subscriber gets one. The directory is going to be packaged with the next copy of Antique Trader!
Be seen with the best. Hundreds of companies are participating
Stake a claim. Promote your business as an industry leader.
It only takes a minute. Fax the form to our offices.
Take control. You decide how customers find your listing.

Inside its pages, the Company Guide contains information on hundreds of businesses involved in the antiques trade. The Product Guide sorts businesses across several categories business owners said best described their merchandise or service.

Because the antiques trade is so diverse, feel free to suggest more product categories or your favorite auction house, shop or event for the next edition.

Regional collectors club conventions

Karen — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 22:01:10 GMT

American Cut Glass Association Annual Convention to be in Vienna, Va.

The American Cut Glass Association will hold its ACGA Annual Convention on July 24-26, 2009, at the Sheraton Premiere at Tysons Corner Hotel, in Vienna, Va.

The convention gives ACGA members a great opportunity to learn about glass and extra time for sight-seeing in the area. There will be a spectacular display of some of the world’s most elegant cut glass, plus lectures by leaders in cut glass and related fields.

For additional information on joining the American Cut Glass Association or about the Annual Convention, visit www.cutglass.org.

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Fenton Glass Collectors to meet in August for convention

The 19th Annual Convention of the National Fenton Glass Society will be held on Aug. 1-3, 2009, in Marietta, Ohio.

The convention headquarters will be the Comfort Inn. Glass displays and seminars are open to the public. Members and their guests will enjoy a dinner cruise aboard the Valley Gem Sternwheeler, participate in Glass ID, attend the NFGS annual meeting, play Fenton bingo, and enjoy the banquet followed by a whimsey auction.

For more information on the NFGS convention or the National Fenton Glass Society, visit www.fentonglasssociety.org.

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Carriage Association of America to hold 2009 conference in Leesburg, Va.

The Carriage Association of America will hold its 2009 CAA Conference on June 17-20, 2009, at the Morven Park Equestrian Center in Leesburg, Va.

For additional information on The Carriage Association of America or the upcoming 2009 conference, visit www.caaonline.com.

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Sewing Machine Collectors to meet in Charlotte in 2009

The International Sewing Machine Collectors’ Society will hold their annual convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Oct. 17-18, 2009.

The convention will include a sewing machine auction and row upon row of sales tables, plus tours and other activities.

For additional information visit www.ismacs.net/events.html or e-mail Graham Forsdyke at graham@ismacs.u-net.com.

— Posted by Karen Knapstein

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M.S. Rau's new blog

Karen — Wed, 27 May 2009 15:02:26 GMT

M.S. Rau Antiques has been in New Orleans' French Quarter for almost 100 years. Their 25,000 square foot gallery is filled with collections of fine art, jewelry and the finest 18th and 19th century antiques. (Just saying they're "fine" and even "finest" seems like an understatement.)

They've recently relaunched their Web site (http://www.rauantiques.com/). It's a nice site with a selection of collections that you can lose your day perusing.

And now they've launched a blog (http://www.rauantiques.com/blog/) where you’ll find information on the gallery’s latest acquisitions, show information and their personal insights on antiques and fine art.

Before you pop on over there, you may want to reserve a respectable amount of time to dedicate ... but then again, you may have more strength and restraint than I do.

— Posted by Karen Knapstein

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

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Design and value

Karen — Wed, 27 May 2009 14:15:55 GMT

I had an interesting conversation with my husband the other day. After an on-air appraisal (I'll bet you can guess which show we were watching) of a George Nakashima table (1967) valued at $50,000-$60,000. [Click here to view the table and read more about it.]

My dear husband was somewhat dumbfounded. He said "That's not even old!" That was so sweet as I too am of 1967 vintage.

Anyway, what followed was an interesting discussion of value based on design and the designer versus value based on age. Of course, both need high quality craftsmanship. He said he didn't even like the way the table looked. It looked "plain" and "too new." He favors the 19th century Victorian look versus the Modern look.

My personal tastes follow along the same lines as his (another reason we get along so well together).

The attraction (demand) for so many to any finely designed and crafted furniture — no matter what the style — makes it valuable ... it's not just the age.

— Posted by Karen Knapstein

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• Visit the Antique Trader Web site HERE. Sign up for our FREE newsletters!
• If you really like what you see, get your own subscription to Antique Trader HERE.

Feature articles from the latest issue of Antique Trader

Karen — Mon, 18 May 2009 00:21:58 GMT

Check it out all:

Ask Antique Trader: Shedding light on dolphin lamp

Light My Fire! Zippo the first name in lighters

Chair tourist attraction opening in Stone Mountain Village

Hey buddy, got a light? (collectible vintage lighters)

Life down on the farm—Farm collectibles (share your farm memories with us ... and if you collect anything farm related)

— Posted by Karen Knapstein

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• Visit the Antique Trader Web site HERE. Sign up for our FREE newsletters!
• If you really like what you see, get your own subscription to Antique Trader HERE.

Collectibles blog you'll want to check out

Karen — Fri, 15 May 2009 13:47:53 GMT

Heritage Auction Galleries has launched their own collectibles blog at www.HeritageAuctions.Blogspot.com. We think you'll want to check it out ...

Heritage issued a press release announcing their new site feature:

Collectors, consignors and the curious alike can now get the inside scoop on hot lots coming down the pipe at Heritage Auction Galleries, along with insight, interviews and commentary from Heritage Auction Galleries staff at the company’s recently launched blog at www.HeritageAuctions.Blogspot.com. Posts are added each weekday.

With three full months under its belt, the blog has already proven a hotspot for a wide cross-sampling of the Heritage audience. Principal writing duties for the blog are held down by staff writer Noah Fleisher, who joined the company in September of 2008.

Noah made a name for himself in the antiques and collectibles market as a writer and an editor for a variety of publications, including Antique Trader, New England Antiques Journal and Northeast Journal of Antiques and Art. He has written several articles for digital publication Style Century Magazine, and also penned the Style Century blog, StyleWire, from May 2008 to January 2009. Noah is also the author of the forthcoming Warman’s Antiques and Collectibles Price Guide to Mid-Century Modern Furniture, due out this summer.

“Heritage is an amazing place to work, with so much great stuff coming in and out on a regular basis that no one could possibly take in the total history and value that the company represents,” he said. “With my past as a writer and an editor I can’t help but want to explore the things going on here. In my work as the staff copywriter I also have access to all 26 departments in the company, the people who work in them and the singular items that routinely come up for auction. It’s a natural fit.”

The blog also features regular Coin Monday posts from numismatic cataloger John Dale Beety, a young numismatist of note with a flair for making the often mystifying world of coin collecting accessible and interesting to any collector. Other Heritage employees have been enlisted and will be contributing from time to time as the rare and valuable collectibles that cross their desks call for.

"The response has been great," said Fleisher. "Heritage has insisted that the voice of the blog be independent, which is a great thing to hear as a writer. That lets us choose our subjects and write about them freely. At heart we're just collectors talking about things that we'd love to have."

The blog is updated daily. Recent postings have covered the sale of an exceedingly rare 1932 Freaks movie poster, the consignment of the Charles Martignette Estate – the finest collection of illustration art to ever reach the market, a trove of rare sporting memorabilia related to legend/pariah “Shoeless” Joe Jackson, a mid-nineteenth century gold ingot coming up for auction in April, a copy of a very rare Showcase#4 comic, the book that started comics’ Silver Age, and much more.

As you probably already know, Heritage auctions offer treasures that cross the entire collecting spectrum ... you name it, at some point or other, they'll have it! (Not just any auction house can say they've auctioned off a triceratops!) So whether you're looking to buy or for information on estate jewelry, fine timepieces, numismatic material, natural history relics ... the list goes on ... www.ha.com is worth the time to browse and check out.

And you may want to catch up with Noah <NoahF@HA.com>...

— Posted by Karen Knapstein

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This week's Antique Trader

Karen — Thu, 14 May 2009 11:01:25 GMT

Here's a peek at the cover:

As you can see, this week we have features on farm collectibles and vintage lighters. And, we have a bonus feature on Zippo lighters!

Click on the magazine cover to go to www.antiquetrader.com and read these great antiques and collectibles features and much, much more.

Can you feel the excitement?

Karen — Tue, 12 May 2009 20:16:57 GMT

I just finished proofreading the majority of the pages for this week's Antique Trader (cover date May 27), and I have to tell you folks: It's another issue packed with intriguing antiques and collectibles features and news. That's one thing I'm excited about.

Another thing I'm excited about that I want to share:

Last night I was trying my darnedest to watch the Roadshow. It was bad enough that last week it wasn't on. Worse: This week it was on and my daughter seemed to be determined that I not watch it.

Seven o'clock rolls around and I have chores yet. OK - so today is her turn to bring snacks and drinks to soccer. We absolutely HAD to take care of that. (Her last two games the kids who were responsible either forgot or weren't in attendance, so there weren't snacks for the hungry kiddos on her team when they finished playing. We were NOT going to be grouped with those other two kids. There WILL be snacks tonight!) So we whipped up some fruity crispy rice bars and gathered up the juice boxes. Check that task off the list!

Dinner is on the stove ... I'm trying not to burn it. Check that off!

"Mom, I'm hungry!"

"Grab some cereal! I want to watch the Roadshow!"

"Mom, I don't want cereal!"

"If you're not eating what we're eating you're having cereal or toast. I'm not cooking two dinners!" (You parents of picky eaters may know the frustration I'm experiencing at this point.)

Clean-up. Check that off!

By now it's past 7:30. I'm getting more and more frustrated. By now, just "the look" makes my daughter think twice about arguing ... but she still does.

By the time I get to sit down and watch my favorite Monday night show, it's almost quarter to eight. I do get to catch a very satisfying appraisal though that casts a shadow over all the frustration leading up to it.

Did any of you see the 18th century turret-top game table with an old refinish that was estimated to be worth $200,000-$250,000? I was elated for the lady whose grandmother had such fantastic instincts that she purchased it "way back when." I've seen a lot of excited people on the show, but few who are actually moved to tears. I don't deal with tears very well. I tend to tear up myself. At least these were genuine tears of joy.

Now I feel better. Much better.

It's an affirmation that those fantastic finds are still out there, whether they're in granny's parlor or Aunt Bess's attic — they ARE out there. We just need to teach ourselves (or seek out advice from those who already know) how to spot those hidden treasures.

— Posted by Karen Knapstein

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Twitter "crash course"

Karen — Wed, 06 May 2009 20:35:19 GMT

Here are some helpful tips when it comes to learning about Twitter:

http://www.birdsallsocialmedia.com/2009/03/27/25-random-things-about-twitter/

Have you tweeted yet?

Do you plan on joining Twitter?

New on the blogging circuit: Crocker Farm

Karen — Tue, 05 May 2009 22:10:08 GMT

Crocker Farm just launched a new blog, Fahrenheit 2300, named after the approximate firing temperature of salt-glazed pottery. If you're not familiar with them, Crocker Farm (http://www.crockerfarm.com) is one of the nation's premier auction firms that specializes in American stoneware and redware pottery.

(You can read about their most recent auction here: Crocker Farm reaps record price for stoneware auction)

The Crocker Farm announcement reads:

Fahrenheit 2300 is a blog dedicated to providing collectors with information and commentary on American stoneware and redware. Our goal is to fill a void for an easily available and frequently updated source to discuss both new findings and old topics relevant to one of our country's oldest and most important handicrafts. We hope, through this forum, to enhance the knowledge and understanding of this art form in a more in-depth way than our catalogs and website usually allow.

Visit the Crocker Farm blog, Fahrenheit 2300, at http://www.crockerfarm.com/blog/

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• If you really like what you see, get your own subscription to Antique Trader HERE.

What's the deal with Twitter?

Karen — Tue, 05 May 2009 03:14:38 GMT

I've had discussions with several people about blogging and Twitter. Some people just don't get it. They wonder, "What's the point?"

I've tried to explain my point of view and tell them that Twitter is a social networking site where you can connect with people who have similar interests.

Then, of course, there's "What's a blog?" And I have to confess it wasn't that long ago that I asked that exact same question. A blog can be just about anything you want it to be, but it, too, is a Web tool for keeping in touch with other people—or getting in touch with new acquaintances who share your interests.

Some people will never understand what a blog or micro-blog is. Some people will never understand (or if they do understand, never take an interest in) Twitter. To be interested in what Twitter is all about, you have to have an interest in being social. Some people have never been and will never be comfortable putting any part of themselves out there to share with others and don't care to chat with "strangers."

And then there's: "OK, I'm here on Twitter; now what?" That's where I started. Now what? Make Twitter whatever you want it to be. If you just want to follow celebrities and see what they're chattering about - do that. If you want to connect with fellow bibliophiles - do that. If you want to discuss politics - do that. The possibilities are virtually endless... with infinite interests come infinite possibilities!

Me, I kind of like the idea of showing the world the "man behind the curtain" (not to be taken literally, folks!) with both the Antique Trader blog and now Twitter. And I like to see what's going on in our vast, vast world of antiques and collectibles. (Here's the perfect opportunity for me to throw this in: Vintage fashion fans have so much FLAIR!)

Antique Trader has been on Twitter for a few weeks now, and I have to tell you: There's a great bunch of folks out there in cyberspace with some valuable insights into the antiques and collectibles world.

The world is all "atwitter" about Twitter. If you haven't checked it out or just didn't know where to start, try here: http://twitter.com/antiquetrader

You'll see posts from Antique Trader as well as all those great folks we're following so far. Follow us and that's our cue that you want us to follow you too! Let's build a fantastic network of antiques and collectibles enthusiasts!

— Posted by Karen Knapstein

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• Visit the Antique Trader Web site HERE. Sign up for our FREE newsletters!
• If you really like what you see, get your own subscription to Antique Trader HERE.

Reyne Haines on CBS Early Show each month

Karen — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 17:41:59 GMT

Here's her April 18 appearance on the CBS Early Show:

You can read the accompanying article, "Trash or Treasure?" on the CBS Web site by clicking HERE.

Reyne Haines (in case you missed it earlier this month) launched her own blog at http://www.threeormore.net/.

We encourage you to check it out when you get the chance for valuable antiques and collecting information.

—Posted by Karen