Antique Trader Blog - Antiques Blogs

What might this mystery antique item be?

Karen — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 16:05:03 GMT

We here at Antique Trader have another mystery on our hands. Have a look at the image and the letter below:

Hi! I hope someone out there can help identify this item! It was in a box of miscellaneous stove parts I purchased at auction. This item is approximately 15 inches long, almost 4 inches high at the round end, has a slight amount of red paint left in areas, has “2BH” on the handle, and has a pulley-type end on the handle inside the round portion. Any help or ideas is appreciated!

Thanks, Debbie, via e-mail

Well, it looks like cast iron and has a handle ... we're at a loss.

Are there any other readers out there who have seen this item before? Send your comments to AskAT@fwmedia.com or ATNews@fwmedia.com and they will be published in a future edition of Antique Trader magazine.

— Karen Knapstein

Precious metal coins in Friday auction are on investors’ radar

Karen — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 16:41:17 GMT

SOUTHAMPTON, Pa. – When Wall Street heads south, investors head straight to precious metals – especially silver and gold coins like the ones to be auctioned by Stephenson’s Auctioneers & Appraisers at 4 p.m. (EST) Friday, Aug. 20th.

More than 500 lots will be offered in the sale, with the great majority being the types of coveted American gold and silver coins that are so highly sought after by today’s collectors. Highlights among the gold issues are an 1899 $10 coin, as well as 1880-S, 1886-S, 1897 and 1881 $5 coins. Other important gold coins to be auctioned are 1905 and 1911 $2-1/2 coins, and 1883 $1 coin and U.S. Constitution coins.

Literally hundreds of Morgan and Peace silver dollars have been entered in the sale, including 1882, 1883, 1884 and 1890 CC (Carson City). Within the selection of half dollars are 30 Liberty head coins plus several large lots of rolled Walking Liberty and Ben Franklin halves.

The coin offering continues with Barber halves and quarters, 1875 and 1875-S 20-cent pieces, large cents, 2-cent pieces, 3-cent pieces and a lot consisting of 11 half-cents. Additionally, there are large quantities of Barber, Mercury and Roosevelt dimes; Buffalo nickels, and many mint and proof sets, including early proof sets from 1953, ’54 and ’55.

Pennywise buyers won’t want to miss the selection of flying eagle and Indian-head cents or the Lincoln cent book spanning the years from 1909 through 1940 inclusive. The book is complete and includes an example of the scarce 1909-S VDB (the initials of designer Victor David Brenner).

"This is an auction that will present excellent buying opportunities both for the advanced collector and the newcomer," said Stephenson’s owner and auctioneer, Cindy Stephenson. "Gold and silver coins stand apart from other types of popular collectibles in that they also have intrinsic value. They have a built-in hedge against inflation, since they’re both a commodity and a monetary instrument."

All items in Stephenson’s Aug. 20 Coin Auction will be available to inspect from 1-4 p.m. on auction day. The complimentary auction catalog may be viewed or downloaded online through Stephenson’s website.

For questions regarding any lot in the sale, call 215-322-6182 or info@StephensonsAuction.com. The auction will take place in metro Philadelphia at 1005 Industrial Blvd., Southampton, Pa. The venue is accessible to major interstate freeways. Those who cannot attend in person may bid absentee, by fax or e-mail prior to the auction, or by phone either before or during the sale. Please arrange for phone line in advance of sale.

About Stephenson’s Auctioneers & Appraisers:

Family-owned Stephenson’s Auctioneers & Appraisers is located near Philadelphia in Bucks County, Pennsylvania and is a full-service auction company that has been in business for nearly 50 years. Stephenson’s knowledgeable, experienced staff members are known for their willingness to assist and their honesty in all dealings. The company conducts weekly and specialty auctions in a 5,000-square-foot, climate-controlled gallery, and holds on-site events if selling real estate or business/residential contents. Each auction season, Stephenson’s produces an Antiques & Decorative Arts Auction that draws worldwide interest and heavy Internet bidding. Stephenson’s is licensed, bonded and insured, and is a member of the SeniorChecked network.

Columnists report on keys to antiques business success

Karen — Mon, 19 Jul 2010 17:13:01 GMT

This week we offer you two sides of the same coin.

Columnist Wayne Jordan and guest columnist Daryle Lambert write about the changing market place of antiques and how important it is for all of us to keep an eye towards the future while we enjoy the past.

Jordan’s column (Elements shifting power from antique dealers) talks about the changing way collectors are consuming information on antiques and collectibles. Collectors demand on-the-spot pricing analysis and research through hand-held, Internet-ready devices. We are seeing this more than ever on our website, as well as how advertisers are now promoting their auctions; many are replacing long listings of antiques and collectibles with a simple website address.

Lambert (Knowledge is the key to antique dealers' success) urges dealers to branch out and keep learning about new areas and emerging trends. He urges dealers to attend antique shows, read magazines and network to get a better bead on what’s selling, and how prices are changing.

Both gentlemen offer crucial messages to today’s shoppers and dealers. The antiques world will never be the same from here on out. It’s our duty to usher in a new era for the next generation of collectors and dealers. That duty starts with investing in your skills and education.

Magazine update

The July 7 cover dated issue featured better cover stock and improved inside pages. We’ll see less bleed-through on the pictures and ads.

Thank you for sticking with us through this transition. If you have any questions or concerns about delivery or readability of your magazine, please contact me at the address at left or at eric.bradley@fwmedia.com.

We have made many changes based on subscribers’ suggestions, so please don’t think your questions or concerns will go unnoticed.

— Eric Bradley

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Can I help you find anything today?

Karen — Tue, 06 Jul 2010 20:35:56 GMT

The weather has turned warm (yes, sometimes too warm), and the summer show season is in full swing, which prompts this week's Question of the Week:

What are some of the items you specifically seek at outdoor shows? Garden furniture? Architectural antiques? Smalls?

Send replies to Letters to the Editor, c/o Antique Trader, 700 E. State St., Iola, WI 54990 or to eric.bradley@fwmedia.com.

Or, of course, you can always post a reply here on the Antique Trader blog.

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Why buy a repro when you can get the real thing?

Karen — Tue, 06 Jul 2010 20:11:13 GMT

My eyes just about bugged out of my head.

Glancing through a mail order catalog recently there they were: More than four pages worth of “vintage charm for your home.”

A major national catalog retailer has picked up a line of reproduction “Depression-era glassware” and has it on sale for just a few bucks. The glassware is in the more popular colors of Depression glass and there are also some pieces usually found made of milk glass, such as hens on nests and assorted candy jars.

These are the pieces that it took five pages in “Warman’s Depression Glass, 5th edition,” to illustrate.

The real troubling part is that the prices the new reproductions are selling for are the exact same prices for the originals that can be found at your local shop or county auction. I some cases, the originals can be found even cheaper. An EAPG footed candy dish selling for $5 online looks very similar to the reproduction selling for $11 in the catalog.

Sure $11 isn’t much. And to most people an $11 reproduction doesn’t represent the greatest threat to the antiques business. But it’s something to take seriously.

Isn’t it funny how often dealers and collectors can be heard lamenting the state of the antique market? Yet, major retailers are turning to our hobbies to make a quick buck when times turn tough. One would think a few knock-offs here and there would reaffirm our trade, but in the case of mass produced reproductions it only hurts.

Maybe these reproductions will catch the eye of more young collectors who will then start searching out new pieces and eventually discover the real thing. Plus, the repros further open the chasm.

The trouble is, the reproductions make it all that more difficult to sell authentic pieces and educate a customer on what makes the piece worth copying in the first place.

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Star of the North Show this weekend at the Minn. State Fairgrounds

Karen — Tue, 22 Jun 2010 19:09:06 GMT

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Townsend Promotions, Inc., is pleased to announce the Star of the North Antique Show will be returning this weekend (June 25-27) to the Minnesota State Fairgrounds. Townsend promoters hear many, many positive comments from customers and exhibitors about the show as well as the location and, of course, the free parking.

The Star of the North has something to offer for every collector from beginning to advanced. You will see an exciting array of antiques in every category from Civil War, historical, political, advertising, coins, vintage toys, fine art glass, fine porcelains, flow blue china, paintings, Moser glass, jewelry, sterling silver matching service, art pottery, holiday collectibles, prints, decorative antiques, carnival glass, cut glass, Fenton glass, Cambridge, Royal Bayreuth, Royal Doulton, Nippon, hatpins, napkin rings, match safes, bookends, door stops, notary seals, postcards, ephemera, furniture, primitives, old books and much more.

New to the show – verbal jewelry appraisal services available at the show daily from 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. This is in conjunction with a Vintage Clothing Show held in the Fine Arts Building and a Book Fair in the Progress Building.

The show will again be held in the Education Building which is located near the entrance of the fairgrounds and free parking. Hours of the show will be: Friday: 10 am – 6 pm; Saturday: 10 am – 6 pm and Sunday 11 am – 4 pm.

Admission is $6 and is good all three days of the show – mention this news release on the Antique Trader blog and receive $1 off one admission at the door.

For show information, call 641-832-2700 or 507-269-1473 or email us at Townsend Promotions.

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-posted by Eric

This Independence Day take time to read the Declaration of Independence

Karen — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 20:37:08 GMT

I’m going to let you in on a practice I’ve done every Independence Day for the last 15 years or so. No matter how long the parade may be or how many roasted hot dogs and chilled beers that have been served, I always steal a quiet moment away from the family and friends.

That’s when I read the Declaration of Independence. Seriously. I’ve made it a holiday habit no different than hanging stockings by the fire or digging costumes out of the basement.

A few years ago I found a small booklet of the Declaration in a thrift store and it is stored in my office bookcase. It’s there next to a bound copy of the Constitution my parents gave me at my college graduation.

This year the Declaration of Independence – one of 26 known to exist from the original July 4, 1776, printing – was the centerpiece of a kick-off event with thousands of schoolchildren from around the country on the campus of the University of Maryland to commemorate National History Day on June 14.

This rare Declaration of Independence is one of the original 200 “Dunlap Broadsides” printed on July 4, 1776, and is now owned by Hollywood producer and philanthropist Norman Lear, who lent the document to honor National History Day’s students and teachers.

Annually, half a million students participate in this national program by creating presentations that bring primary-source research to life through table-top exhibitions, documentaries, live performances, websites and research papers.

Programs like these get children interested in history and, I like to think, an eventual awareness and passion for antiques and collectibles.

So I’m asking all of our readers to take 10 minutes to read the entire Declaration of Independence ... and share at least a few of the graspable terms with a young person in you life. In the long run, it’s good for our country and good for our hobby.

You may enjoy these articles on Americana antiques and collectibles:

    • July 2008: Rare 1823 Stone facsimile of the Declaration of Independence brings $132,000 at Swann Galleries’ June 5 auction
    • June 2010: Art Markets: World War I poster art rooted in propaganda
    • July 2009: Collection Spotlight: One man’s passion for pulp

Visit www.antiquetrader.com/Americana for more related articles.

Shop our library of Americana reference books and price guides with topics ranging from military artifacts (Civil War through Vietnam), advertising and sports nostalgia.

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-posted by Eric Bradley

Warman's Jewelry author Kathy Flood focus of teleseminar

Karen — Tue, 15 Jun 2010 21:18:48 GMT

Although readers of the June 30 issue of Antique Trader will get a sneak peak of the new Warman's Jewelry, 4th edition by Kathy Flood (right), you can get a chance to chat with Kathy in an exclusive teleconference hosted by The Queen of Auctions Lynn Dralle.

Kathy will be the featured expert where she will answer questions about buying and selling costume jewelry! It will be this Wednesday, June 16 at 5 pm PDT, 8 pm EDT.

This teleseminar is free for members of members of Dralle's Queen's Court but costs $29.95 for everyone else. If you can’t make the live call it will be recorded and available as a download soon after.

For those of you not familiar with Dralle, during the last 12 years she has established herself as the poster child of eBay success stories. Starting in 1998, Dralle has overseen a strong eBay business. She has since appeared on hundreds of radio and TV programs, including NBC's "Evening Magazine" and "Inside Edition" with Deborah Norville. She was featured in the September 2006 issue of "Good Housekeeping." She has also produced and hosted a series of DVD programs entitled "The Queen's Academy." She is still an eBay power seller and sells about 600 items each month at online auction. She lives in Southern California with her two children.

-posted by Eric Bradley

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• Find us on Twitter and Facebook
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• Browse hundreds of collectibles reference books in our store.
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Mated pair of Andrew Clemens sand art bottles surface ... again

Karen — Fri, 11 Jun 2010 05:52:09 GMT

A curious and unique pair of sand art bottles, handcrafted by Andrew Clemens (1857-1894) of McGregor, Iowa, will be offered for sale in a July 2 auction held by W. Yoder Auction and carried live via ProxiBid. Popularly referred to as the Sweetheart Sandbottles, these rare bottles have surfaced for sale no less than three times in the last five years - twice in just the last four months.

Clemens lost his hearing and speech at age 5 due to a "brain fever." As a deaf-mute he earned worldwide acclaim for his ability to "paint" images inside blown glass bottles with nothing more than a set of special tools (including a fish hook) and the patience of a yeoman. He was proud that his specially colored sand came from Iowa's Pictured Rocks area of Pikes Peak State Park. According to several online articles, Clemens created most of his work from 1880-1886 and is acknowledged as the inventor and possibly the sole practitioner of his art form. Antique Trader featured Clemens' work in a cover story in February 2008.

It's estimated that of the hundreds of sand art bottles Clemens made during his regrettably short life (he died at age 37 or 42 depending on which account you read) only about 50 bottles remain. They are highly coveted by American folk art collectors for their ingenuity and beauty. Prices range from about $500 for lesser quality examples to as much as $25,000. Four bottles are on display at the Iowa State Historical Museum in Des Moines and other bottles are documented on a fan site.

They are referred to as the Sweetheart Sandbottles, at least that's how auctioneer Wes Cowan described them when he sold the pair for $24,500 (not including buyer's premium) in February 2005. The commissioned bottles were made for Helen Wimmler, Milwaukee, and Henry Reinken, Manitowoe, (sic) Wis. (The Wisconsin city of Manitowoc is misspelled.)

Fast forward to Feb. 16, 2010. In a listing that's since expired from general searches, the sandbottles were offered by a Florida seller on eBay. By all accounts the listing shows the bottles were claimed after five bids for $19,000. The listing is for the same Wimmler and Reinken bottles, "the only 'mated pair' of Clemens sand bottle art."

For whatever reason, the wonderful Sweetheart Sandbottles are back on the market and represent one more opportunity for collectors to own a piece of peculiar folk art. The bottles are shown on Yoder's auction website along with three other rare examples included in the firm's July 2 auction. One of the three examples depicts an American eagle above a banner reading "M.W. Cole," another shows a paddle wheel boat and the third depicts a floral bouquet in an urn.

-posted by Eric Bradley

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•Find us on Twitter and Facebook
•Visit the Antique Trader Website and sign up for our FREE eNewsletter.
•Browse hundreds of collectibles reference books in our store.
•Need pricing data? Check out Warman's Antiques & Collectibles 2011 Price Guide.
•And browse the Antique Trader Classifieds or place your own online ad - FREE

Record set for Lalanne sculptures

Karen — Tue, 08 Jun 2010 16:53:27 GMT

VAN NUYS, Calif. – Los Angeles Modern Auctions (LAMA) announces Francois-Xavier Lalanne Singes Attentifs SI & SII, sold for a record price of $199,062 (estimate $100,000-$125,000) and was the top lot in the May 23 Modern Art & Design Auction.

The artist’s daughter, Marie, was on hand to witness the sale and posed for a photograph with one of her father’s sculptures.

The May 23, 2010, Modern Art & Design Auction totaled $1.67 million (including buyer’s premium) selling 64 percent of the 451 lots available. More than 300 people attended the auction, making it the largest attendance at a LAMA auction to date.

The gallery was standing room only and was filled with buyers from all over the world. Buyers represented France, Portugal, Israel, Mexico, and a heavy percentage from California. ■

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•Find us on Twitter and Facebook
•Visit the Antique Trader Website and sign up for our FREE eNewsletter.
•Browse hundreds of collectibles reference books in our store.
•Need pricing data? Check out Warman's Antiques & Collectibles 2011 Price Guide.
•And browse the Antique Trader Classifieds or place your own online ad - FREE!

RWCS sponsors latest Antique Trader sweepstakes

Karen — Tue, 01 Jun 2010 14:31:25 GMT

We’ve been very busy working up new ways for readers to interact with fellow collectors and collections. One project in particular is a great opportunity for lovers of Red Wing stoneware and art pottery ceramics.

Antique Trader is teaming up with the Red Wing Collectors Society to bring you a whopper for our monthly, online-only Treasure Hunt Sweepstakes. In exchange for signing up to receive our two, free weekly e-newsletters through the sweepstakes, entrants have a chance to win a $150 prize package through the month of June.

The Red Wing Collectors Society is one of the oldest most active, engaged and knowledgeable clubs in the United States. You can lean more about this great group of people at www.redwingcollectors.org, which incidentally is the No. 1 source of Red Wing Pottery knowledge in the world. Its famous national convention is scheduled for July 8-10, 2010, in — where else — Red Wing, Minn.

The prize package includes a one-year membership in the RWCS, which includes the official newsletter six times a year, a rare 2009 RWCS convention commemorative advertising bean pot (available only to RWCS members and limited to 3,600 pieces) AND a 2010 RWCS convention commemorative, yet to be released, that’s only available to members at the July 8-10 convention.

You can enter at http://sweepstakes.antiquetrader.com/. This is the first time we’ve ever offered such a prize package and we’re proud to partner with the RWCS. Remember, this is an online only sweepstakes.

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American Pickers second season premiers June 7

Karen — Sun, 23 May 2010 20:32:58 GMT

NEW YORK - Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz are once again searching the back roads, junkyards, and filled-to-the-brim barns in America for “rusty gold.” With an average of 3.8 million total viewers per episode in its first season, American Pickers, the No. 1 new cable series of 2010, returns for a second season with all new premieres beginning Monday, June 7 at 9pm ET on HISTORY.

Part sleuths, part antiques experts, and part cultural historians – Mike and Frank’s adventures bring them to small towns across the country in search of weird and wonderful Americana. Each treasure hunt leads them to fascinating, quirky characters – everyday people with stories that open a window onto American life.

As professional “pickers,” these childhood buddies comb through memorabilia and artifacts, hoping to find treasures among the trash. Sometimes they make a few bucks; and sometimes they walk away with little more than the history of an item.

The new season begins June 7 in North Carolina, where the duo comb through a collector’s abandoned outbuildings and find a 1950 Studebaker. Mike becomes obsessed with a 1934 pre-Airstream trailer, but can they negotiate a deal? Then, hoping to sell a choice vintage sign, they visit their friend and NASCAR champion Ryan Newman, who has a surprise of his own for the guys.

As their junkyard journeys continue, the pickers rummage through ramshackle school buses, a burned storage building, forgotten barns, salvage yards, and rust heaps in search of what they call “good junk.” They come across an item they’ve never seen before, place bets on what it actually is, and get a surprising assessment from the appraiser. They encounter a mother and daughter who catch the picking bug and give the guys a run for their money. And with nerves of steel, they try to strike deals with people who are often reluctant to part with their possessions.

Meanwhile, back in Iowa, Danielle Colby Cushman holds down the fort at Antique Archaeology. She spends her time getting leads, talking to sellers and doing research via trade publications and websites. Danielle also keeps the boys in line – while they keep her in stitches with their antics.

“We’re caretakers of treasures and the stories behind them,” says Mike. Traveling along with the duo, viewers will meet an assortment of American originals and watch as a patchwork of history unfolds – one treasure at a time.

Antique Trader covered American Picker's debut and its initial controversy in its February issue posted online.

Don't the coverage we gave PawnStars, American Pickers' sister show and the exclusive interview and video of Rick Harrison.

MEET THE “PICKERS”

Mike Wolfe

A lifelong “picker,” Mike has been combing through junk since the age of four. Over the years, he's earned a reputation as one of the country's foremost foragers, traveling coast to coast in search of forgotten treasures. Where other people see dilapidated barns and overgrown yards, Mike sees potential goldmines packed with rare finds and sensational stories.

Mike spends as much time as he can on the road, usually with Frank - his friend of 20 years and picking partner-in tow. "A picker's kind of like a nomad," he explains. Wherever they go, the two guys unearth hoards of unique items and spend some quality time with the offbeat characters who own them.

What exactly does Mike look for? "Anything I can make a buck on," he laughs. That could be anything from antique baby carriages and vintage jukeboxes to old cars and scrap metal. Mike's clients include interior designers, art directors, photographers and collectors – and he owns Antique Archaeology, a specialty shop that sells antiques, vintage items and more in sleepy Le Claire, Iowa. Visit Mike’s official company website here: www.antiquearcheology.com

Frank Fritz

Like his childhood friend Mike, Frank started picking early, collecting rocks and beer cans as a kid. He worked for many years as a fire and safety inspector but always had a passion for antiques, junk and anything with an engine. These days, he spends most of his time on the road with Mike, digging for treasure in barns, garages and junkyards across America.

Even-tempered and affable, he has a way with potential sellers and a knack for putting out fires: Mike calls him the bearded charmer. Frank does get a little carried away, however, by anything with an engine, and Mike often has to talk him out of buying yet another motorbike for his collection.

With their complementary personalities and shared love of picking, Frank and Mike make the perfect team. Still, since they're both out to cash in on their finds, some healthy competition always comes into play. Visit Frank’s official company website here: www.frankfritzfinds.com

Danielle Colby Cushman

While the guys are out picking, Danielle holds down the fort at Antique Archaeology - Mike's store and base of operations. She spends her time talking to buyers, packing up shipments and keeping Mike and Frank in line, while they keep her in stitches with their antics and jokes. Mike likes to say she's the glue that holds them all together. A mother of three, Danielle is always working on a new creative project, whether it's painting, designing clothes or selling vintage-inspired gifts online. She feels extremely proud of the "boys" and fortunate to work with such a talented pair.

-posted by Eric Bradley

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Antique Trader is giving a free antique appraisal to attendees of the Chicago Antique Market

Karen — Wed, 19 May 2010 04:59:13 GMT

Own an antique or collectible?
Of course you do!

Want to know its value?
Absolutely!

Come meet Antique Trader at Chicago's largest antiques and collectibles festival May 29-30! Every attendee to the Chicago Antique Market at the Randolph Street Market Festival will giving free antique appraisals at the inaugural Antique Trader Appraisal Fair. After shopping from aisles and aisles of more than 300 vendors inside and outside Chicago’s historic Plumbers Hall, regional and nationally-known antiques experts will answer your questions on family heirlooms and rare items from your collection.

Situated under the big top tent, every attendee is eligible for a free appraisal of an antique or collectible with additional appraisals (as time allows) available at $10 each. Appraisal fair hours are limited to 1 to 4 p.m., Saturday, May 29 and from 11 to 3 p.m., Sunday, May 30.

Among the experts scheduled to appear:

* Mark Moran, appraiser and senior editor of Warman's Antiques & Collectibles 2011 Price Guide, 44th Edition antiques and collectibles books for Krause Publications and an appraiser for PBS’s “Antiques Roadshow.”

* Brett Benson owner of Jewel Sphinx Extraordinary Objects and Jewels

* Daryle Lambert, founder of the 31 Corp., and author of the book 31 Steps to Your Millions in Antiques and Collectibles.

Among the unique “show within a show” features at the Chicago Antique Market include:

* The Indie Designer Market, the lower level of Plumber’s Hall, features the hottest young designers creating avant garde and one-of-a-kind fashion, art and jewelry.

* The Vinyl Swap Meet, where thousands of collectible records from 45’s to LP’s, jazz to rock and show tunes are availabel to buy, swap or sell.

* The Fancy Food Market, offering all types of chocolates, cakes, breads, spices, olive oils, salsa to bring home or enjoy during the event.

More Info:

Chicago Antique Market at the Randolph Street Market Festival Saturday & Sunday, May 29-30, 2010

1350 Block W. Randolph Street & inside Plumbers Hall, 1340 W. Washington Street, Chicago.

Free pickup and drop off from Water Tower Place, 835 N Michigan Ave.

Show hours

10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday, May 29
10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday, May 30

Antique Appraisal Fair Hours

1 to 4 p.m., Saturday, May 29
11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Sunday, May 30

Tickets

$10, available at the gate or in advance online

Chicago Antique Market
312-666-1200
info@chicagoantiquemarket.com
www.chicagoantiquemarket.com

-Posted by Eric Bradley

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Antique map at auction shows early Washington before District of Columbia

Karen — Wed, 19 May 2010 04:08:35 GMT

The extraordinary private collection of more than 100 maps documenting the topographical and development of Washington D.C. history is making big news in the Beltway.

The maps cross the block Thursday, May 20, 2010 at Quinn’s Auction Galleries & Waverly Rare Books in Falls Church, Va. As part of the map collection of Washingtonian John Richman, the collection of rare maps traces over 200 years of the District’s physical progress, including the dredging of the Potomac that enabled the creation of a unified new city.

“This collection is a virtual 200-year time capsule of how Washington was established, how it looked before the District was formed, and how the aspects of some of its most important landmarks changed the landscape,” said Matthew C. Quinn, co-owner of Quinn’s Auctions. “There are maps of the City of Alexandria, the City of Georgetown, and then the newly established City of Washington. Additionally, there are maps showing The Washington Monument as it was being built.”

The ongoing architectural improvements and transformation of the nation’s most famous monuments (including The Washington Monument), The White House and other structures are documented in several maps that show the evolution of our nation’s capital. “All this history in one location, how often do you see that?” Quinn said. “It’s fascinating to compare the city’s transformation over centuries.”

Most of the D.C. maps are over 100 years old, and some are on the pricier side, like Andrew Ellicott’s late-18^th-century “Plan of the City of Washington in the Territory of Columbia ceded by the States of Virginia and Maryland to the United States of America.” Its auction estimate is $500-$1,000. But Quinn stressed that most of the maps entered in the sale are very affordable, with individual estimates starting well under $100.

“This is a rare opportunity for Washingtonians to own fascinating views of their city from over a century ago. Each map is attractively framed and ready to hang as a historical artwork in the home or office,” Quinn said. The maps have been featured on Washington-area television stations, drawing interest from collectors and Washington history buffs alike.

The John Richman District of Columbia map collection is the centerpiece of a larger selection of rare books, maps and atlases to be auctioned Thursday May 20 at 6:30 p.m. All forms of bidding will be available, including live via the Internet.

Contact Matthew Quinn by calling 703-532-5632 or e-mailing matthew.quinn@quinnsauction.com. Visit Quinn’s online at www.quinnsauction.com.

This isn't the only antique map making headlines this month. Garth's is offering the 1826 Savery-Sumner map, titled “Map Of The Western Reserve Including the Fire Lands in Ohio,” May 29.

- Posted by Eric Bradley

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Blue & White Pottery Club to convene in June

Karen — Thu, 13 May 2010 17:49:03 GMT

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa — The Blue & White Pottery Club was founded in 1981 by a handful of Blue & White Stoneware pottery enthusiasts and collectors, principally in the Midwest. The Blue & White pottery interests include Blue & White, Uhl, Blue & Gray (Utica/Flemish), Sleepy Eye, Spongeware, Red Wing, and other stoneware. The Blue & White Pottery Club now has more than 300 members reaching from coast to coast and border to border.

The principal goals of the Blue & White Pottery Club are to share information, encourage learning, and foster an appreciation of the distinct history, wide variety, and increasing collectability of Blue & White Stoneware pottery. Equally important goals are the promotion and nurturing of friendships with fellow collectors and to further the equal opportunity for all to participate in new discoveries and exciting information about Blue & White pottery.

Attending the Club’s annual convention each June is a highlight of membership; this year it will be held June 10-12, 2010, at the Cedar Rapids Marriott in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. One of the highlights of the convention is the Club Consignment Auction consisting of approximately 120 pieces of premium stoneware including Blue & White, Sleepy Eye, Red Wing, Western, Whites Utica as well as others.

To join the Blue & White Pottery Club, a membership form can be found on their website at www.blueandwhitepottery.org and you will also find this years convention agenda along with more information about convention and the Blue & White Pottery Club.

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Annual Antiques & Gardening at Bryn Du opens May 14

Karen — Tue, 11 May 2010 15:18:25 GMT

GRANVILLE, Ohio — Antiques & Gardening at Bryn Du will open its doors for the fourth annual event this Friday, May 14 at the historic Granville Mansion. Proceeds from the event help support the Bryn Du's restoration and preservation as a National Register of Historic Places landmark.

During the event Bryn Du Mansion's porches, walkways and lawn will be highlighted by a variety of garden art, statuary and plants. In addition, the Mansion, Carriage House and adjacent Field House will host antique dealers from more than a dozen states, according to Bryn Du Mansion Executive Director Bruce Cramer.

Photo courtesy Eric Miller.

It’s an event well suited for the historic property.

The 19th-century Federal-style estate has served as a community venue for educational and cultural meetings and antique and art shows, athletic and social gatherings, weddings, and polo matches since its creation in 2002.

A preview brunch is set for Friday, May 14 to open the show. General admission to Antiques & Gardening at Bryn Du begins Friday at noon and continues until 6 p.m. Saturday, hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday hours are from noon to 5 p.m. Preview brunch admission is $20 and includes re-admission to the show throughout the weekend. General admission tickets are $8 and are also good for the duration of the event.

A short drive east from downtown Columbus, Bryn Du is located east of the Village of Granville at 537 Jones Road.

The Antiques Show (managed by Melrose & Duddy) bring 25 years of antiques show experience to Antiques & Gardening at Bryn Du and has successfully managed antiques shows since 2007. More information on The Antiques Show is available at www.theantiquesshow.com. More information on Antiques & Gardening at Bryn Du and Bryn Du Mansion is available at www.brynduantiques.com.

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Antique Trader Question of the Week: New, imported items

Karen — Wed, 28 Apr 2010 14:14:08 GMT

We at Antique Trader would like to know your opinion on the following:

What do you think about antique dealers selling new items at shows that are imported from overseas?

Send your replies to eric.bradley@fwmedia.com or Letters to the Editor, c/o Antique Trader, 700 E State St., Iola, WI 54990.

Or, feel free to post a reply right here on the Antique Trader blog.

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Anniversary of PT Barnum's 200th in Antique Trader

Karen — Tue, 20 Apr 2010 17:42:28 GMT

The May 5 edition of Antique Trader is filled with antique and collectible news and features.

The main cover feature celebrates the 200th anniversary of P.T. Barnum's birth. Circus enthusiasts are planning a year of celebrations and events to commemorate the occasion.

CLICK HERE to read the Antique Trader cover feature on P.T. Barnum and circus collectibles

This week's Antique Trader Question of the Week:

What do you think of collectors or crafters physically altering postcards for craft projects?

Post a reply here or drop us a line at eric.bradley@fwmedia.com. Or feel free to send us a note: Letters to the Editor, c/o Antique Trader, 700 E State Street, Iola, WI 54990.

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RWCS announces free trial membership offer

Karen — Fri, 16 Apr 2010 20:18:38 GMT

RED WING, Minn. – As part of its 2010 membership initiative, the Red Wing Collectors Society (RWCS) is offering FREE trial membership to everyone interested in Red Wing stoneware and pottery. Established in 1977, the RWCS is the largest group of collectors dedicated to the study and preservation of Red Wing and American pottery in the country.

As part of the free trial, participant will receive the February and April issues of the 2010 RWCS Newsletter. Packed with full-color feature articles about various lines of Red Wing wares, collector profiles, collecting trends, latest finds and club news, the Society has one of the best newsletters of any collectors group in the nation.

Those who take advantage of the offer will also have access to the “Members Only” section of the RWCS Web site with a temporary user id and password. When you log in, you will be able to access the hundreds of resources available to our members including: past newsletters, articles, Convention supplements, etc.

This offer has no gimmicks and no catches. Since a credit card number is not required for this free trial, trial membership will simply expire May 31, 2010 and you won’t need to call the Society to cancel.

“If you find value in the trial membership, we’d love for you to contact our office and join the RWCS as a primary member,” says RWCS Executive Director Stacy Wegner. “Annual primary membership costs $25 and includes a lot of great benefits, including the opportunity to buy our annual members only commemorative piece. But if you decide the RWCS isn’t for you, you can keep the newsletters as a gift and you owe us nothing.”

Other benefits of RWCS primary membership include free access to the RWCS video library of more than 200 educational presentations, the opportunity to attend the annual July Convention and February MidWinter events, and the ability meet and network with other members. As long as there’s at least one primary member in a household, associate memberships including all benefits except the newsletter are available for spouses, etc. for an additional $10 annually.

To sign up for this free trial offer, please visit the Free Trial Membership page on the RWCS Web site [HERE], call the RWCS Business Office at 800-977-7927 or e-mail your name and mailing address to trialmembership@redwingcollectors.org. Use promo code ATa1.

For more information about the Red Wing Collectors Society, please visit www.redwingcollectors.org.

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Introducing the Collecting Insider

Karen — Fri, 09 Apr 2010 19:08:37 GMT

... formerly known as the VIP Club.

The Collecting Insider is your access to insider news, key information for identifying and determining the value of collectibles, a place to buy and sell antiques and collectibles, the source for exclusive savings on collector resources.

Antique Trader Publisher Dianne Wheeler says of the new program, "We are very excited to introduce this new savings opportunity to our Collectibles Family! At a time when money is tight and stress is abundant, it's great to be able to offer solid content and valuable information for your hobby — at a fraction of the retail price."

With your membership you get:

One-year (40 issues) U.S. subscription to Antique Trader (retail value $119.60)

One-year of online access to Collect.com with up-to-date pricing for tens of thousands of antiques and collectibles and a place to buy and sell your collectibles (retail value $39.98)

Downloadable online recorded seminar "How to Get a Certified Appraiser for Your Antiques" (retail value: $9.99) 10% off purchases made through Shop.Collect.com for one year

Downloadable resource "Successful Strategies for Buying and Selling Collectibles Online" (retail value $4.99) Plus, preferred access to special sales, early notification of new products at Shop.Collect.com, and exclusive savings from Antique Trader, Comics Buyer's Guide and Collect.com partnerships

The total value of this premiere package is $194.56, but when you join the Collectibles Insider you get these things and more for just $49.98. That's a savings of 74% and a deal you can't afford to pass up – sign up to become a Collecting Insider today!

The total value of all of these collecting resources is $194.56, but when you take your place as a Collecting Insider you get all of this and more for just $49.98. That's a savings of 74% on access to information you can use in every aspect of collecting.

Learn more about the Collecting Insider program

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Fashion world icon leaves retirement to mentor vintage merchants and independent designers

Karen — Wed, 07 Apr 2010 15:08:27 GMT

CHICAGO — Recently retired from a long and distinguished career at Saks Fifth Avenue and not one to rest, industry icon Nena Ivon has taken on a new role in the world of independent design and vintage fashion. Ivon will serve as Fashion Director of Randolph Street Market. Her first task — helping independent designers and vintage merchants succeed at Randolph Street Market’s (RSM) Modern Vintage Chicago April 17-18, 2010.

“Today people are interested in buying things that are different and in being more individual in how they are dressing,” Ivon says describing the brilliance of bringing together independent designers and vintage dealers for the event. “The result is a uniqueness that can’t be found anywhere else — and everyone wants something they can’t get somewhere else. I’m here to help those who provide it.”

From New York to Santa Monica, vintage and independent designer markets are known as the best place to find the unique, and Ivon wants to help make Chicago’s vintage market the best. With a sizable industry already in place, positioning the RSM as a fashion destination with the city’s independent designers at the center of this push, doesn’t seem like too tall an order.

“I’m proud of Chicago, and I like to think of it as not only the heart of America but also the heart of America's fashion industry,” Ivon says noting that fashion tourists from around the world already frequently make their way to the city. “I’m in this position because I made it known that going to the Randolph Street Market is one of my favorite things to do in Chicago — and I want to share my enthusiasm.”

The longest-serving employee of Saks Fifth Avenue, Ivon has worked with dozens of top-name designers in the role of fashion director and manager of special events for the company. She also teaches three courses at Columbia College in Chicago including a history of modern fashion and fashion show production. That, combined with her new role as fashion director for Randolph Street Market, may seem like a lot to do in retirement, but taking on extra work is something Ivon is accustomed to.

“It’s just who I am,” Ivon says, happy she can turn her attention to independent design. “My goal is increased visibility for the clothing designers, to help them sell more.”

That help will come in the form of merchandising and promotion, and in reinforcing the show as a destination for unique design. To help accomplish that, Ivon says she’ll be working to leverage the city’s educational resources and even bring in top designers who can also benefit from the visibility at the market.

To some, the worlds of vintage fashion and new design might seem to be at odds, but Ivon says they make a perfect mix.

“A lot of people think you have to dress in vintage head to toe — you don’t,” she says explaining that the independent designers often cull vintage fashion.” Fashions always come back in new designs, she says, but come back in different ways. “Sometimes vintage can look dated, but the best stuff always looks good. Chances are if it looks dated, it wasn’t great design to begin with.”

Ivon says she’s been impressed by the quality at the Randolph Street Market but adds that sometimes good design isn’t all that’s needed to succeed. Part of her work is to instill the art of personal promotion.

“Designers can expect people to come to them — they usually won’t. Even established designers have to make the effort to promote themselves,” Ivon says. “Being visible and consciously promoting is what it’s all about…

“That, plus having fun, is why I’m here.”

About Randolph Street Market Festival

The Randolph Street Market Festival is home to the world-renowned Chicago Antique Market & Indie Designer Market and is the favorite destination for Hollywood set designers, as well as merchandisers, decorators, fashionistas and style setters from around the globe. This European-style indoor-outdoor market in the historic West Loop neighborhood features 200 select purveyors of high quality, beautifully-priced “finds” offering unlimited creative inspiration and hours of fun. For more information visit www.randolphstreetmarket.com or phone 312-666-1200.

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Would YOU get into the antiques business again?

Karen — Tue, 06 Apr 2010 13:57:20 GMT

Question of the Week:

If you could do it all over again, at what level would you get involved in the antiques business?

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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Hurry! This sale won't last long!

Karen — Thu, 01 Apr 2010 23:25:43 GMT

No Foolin! This offer ends at 11:59 p.m. EDT April 4, 2010.

CLICK HERE or on the coupon above to take advantage of the Spring Into Savings event and pick up all those antiques and collectibles books you've had your eye on.

What's with all the million dollar comics?

Eric Bradley, editor — Tue, 30 Mar 2010 21:35:59 GMT

It's enough to make Clark Kent smell a bigger story.

Yesterday a copy of Action Comics No. 1 sold to a private collector for $1.5 million at the auction website ComicConnect. This edition of Action Comics No. 1 is considered the Holy Grail among collectors because it features the first appearance of Superman and because it is one of the few remaining in such excellent condition.

The sale comes just two short weeks after two back to back comics sales rocked the collectibles world. In February, ComicsConnect sold a lesser quality version of Action No. 1 for $1 million. Three days later Heritage Auctions sold a copy of Detective Comics No. 27 for $1.075 million. That issue features the first appearance of Batman.

Until these sales, the highest amount paid for a comics was $317,000 for a copy of Action Comics No. 1.

So what's driving these high-flying prices? On the surface it looks like comics fans have decided to up the ante and put big money behind the best books out there.

It also looks like there's a bit of competition between auction houses to see who can lay claim as the seller of history's most valuable comic.

In Memoriam: Dr. Edmund P. Pillsbury – 1943-2010

Eric Bradley, editor — Fri, 26 Mar 2010 19:30:00 GMT

Edmund P. (“Ted”) Pillsbury, Heritage Auctions' Chairman of Fine Arts and Director of Museum Services, died this morning of an apparent heart attack suffered Thursday afternoon.

Pillsbury was a well known and respected scholar of fine arts. Below is a statement from Heritage Auctions Co-Founders Steve Ivy and Jim Halperin on Pillsbury's sudden passing:

"We learned this morning of the passing of Dr. Edmund P. (“Ted”) Pillsbury at the age of 66 from an apparent heart attack yesterday afternoon after returning from lunch with a consignor. All of us here at Heritage Auction Galleries wish to express our deepest sympathy to his wife, children, coworkers and all others who knew and loved him.

Dr. Pillsbury was well-known as one of the world’s foremost art museum professionals. He earned his Ph.D. in Italian Renaissance Art from the University of London’s Courtauld Institute of Art. Among the places that flourished under his leadership are: The Yale Center for British Art; the Paul Mellon Centre for Studies in British Art in London; the Kimbell Art Museum in Ft. Worth, TX (he served as director of the Kimbell for 18 years and built it into one of the greatest art museums in the world); the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art in Las Vegas, and the Meadows Museum at SMU. He also served as an advisor to The Hermitage in Saint Petersburg, Russia.

Ted joined the Heritage family in 2005 and, with his dynamism, unimpeachable reputation and encyclopedic knowledge of Fine Art, made an immediate impact as Chairman of our Fine Arts and Museum Services departments. He essentially built both departments from scratch, recruiting a world class team of experts and other professionals.

His tenure here at Heritage lasted nearly five years, the longest of any institution he served other than the Kimbell, and we all expected to be working with him for many more years to come. This is such a sad day for Heritage’s 375 employees, and for the art community at large. Ted will be terribly missed, though his legacy proudly continues."

- Steve Ivy & Jim Halperin

Question of the Week: Antique opportunity regrets

Karen — Thu, 25 Mar 2010 21:11:29 GMT

This week's Antique Trader Question of the Week:

What is the one antique or collectible you regret passing up?

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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This package is the best part

Karen — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 21:06:56 GMT

On our way to a family vacation, we stopped at a small country auction not far off the highway leading to our getaway.

By now, our three kids are used to such quick stops and the whining is at a minimum when we tell them there will probably be some box lots of toys to poke through.

Walking along a row of tables covered with clocks, lamps, boxes of kitchenwares, I spotted a small majolica bottle with an impish grin. The telltale signs of a majolica glaze shown through years of shelf dust. A closer look sparked my memory and visions of plump little figures dishing wise nuggets came to mind. It was one of illustrator Palmer Cox’s little Brownie creations staring up through the grime.

Cox’s Brownies are famous for being the first commercially successful pop culture figures, first appearing in 1883. The Brownie characters were based (in part) in folklore but were adapted to help marketers sell everything from breakfast cereal to cameras. The figures were so popular with collectors and children that Eastman Kodak named its handheld Kodak Brownie camera after them.

As in most purchases, my interest was in curiosity rather than value. When the auctioneer called the item a “whiskey nip,” I knew the little bottle was going on vacation with the whole family.

When we got back, the research commenced. That’s when I learned about Schafer & Vater, featured on this week’s cover. [CLICK HERE to read the article.] Although they didn’t make the Brownie whiskey nip, I became fascinated in the company’s diverse history.

According to research done by collector Don Bergsengs, Schafer & Vater used various types of clays. Items made of hard paste porcelain, soft paste porcelain, jasper, bisque, and majolica can be found. You can find the jasper in green, blue, pink, lavender, and white.

Most appealing to me is that the company made its fortune in the novelty whiskey bottles that poked fun of “the drink” at a time when Prohibition was sweeping the globe. The bottles were being sold through the Sears Roebuck & Co. catalog just 10 years before Prohibition was adopted in the United States; it was already adopted in parts of Canada and across Russia.

The bottles represent craftsmanship and work ethic and are one more example why we shouldn’t take life too seriously.

Eric Bradley
Editor

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Recent graduate pays her student loan with $6,000 antique shaving mug

Eric Bradley, editor — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 22:24:57 GMT

Her three year career selling on eBay just hit a jackpot for emerging antiques dealer Cynthia Kelly of Seattle. She recently sold an antique occupational shaving mug on eBay for almost $6,000.

That's an astounding price for an independent dealer considering some of the recent auctions held for occupational shaving mugs. The mug (which you can see here for a limited time) was purchased by another antiques dealer/collector in Pennsylvania, who boasts a collection of more than 200 mugs.

The shaving mug is rare in that it features a stock broker or commodities trader, busily jotting down sale prices on grain, wheat, flour and corn. We touched on these fascinating collectibles in a previous post.

This is Kelly's biggest sale so far with the online auction site. She writes: "It was also a huge surprise for me! I invested $22.50 in the mug at an estate auction and had only expected it to bring $100-$200. When someone offered me $750 to "Buy it Now" during the course of the auction, I knew I had something good.

"I turned down the offer and kept the auction running. When I saw the final end price of $5,998, I was in shock for about 15 minutes straight. The money went to pay off the rest of my student loans (I'm a young antique dealer at only 23), so the money came at a great time. "

You can see all of Kelly's auctions through her eBay store here. This self proclaimed "thrift-store junkee" also promotes a blog about her adventures (and her dog Sammy) at The Cynch.

-posted by Eric Bradley

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Collectors keep Quimper market vibrant

Karen — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 23:47:00 GMT

This week’s cover story on Quimper pottery illustrates what’s best about collectors.

Collectors are those people who, when they develop an affinity for a particular item, read and research everything there is on that topic. They stick with their appreciation no matter the obstacles. The hobby is more about personal enjoyment than it is about dollars and cents. So it is, evidently, with Quimper collectors. Chriss Swaney’s article shows demand is still strong for Quimper pieces even though skilled faience makers in France create new pieces every year.

Dealers say they are experiencing this demand at shows as well. Noted Quimper expert Joan Datesman told me that she continues to make her strongest sales and meet the most engaged customers at shows. Although the market is more sophisticated than it was 30 years ago, the market is still vibrant with new people inquiring about the pottery every month. She said many of these inquiries are from those who are just now inheriting collections; it will truly be exciting during the course of the next few years to see these fantastic items come to market.

On page 14 we highlight a spectacular family collection coming to market. The Tom Gray collection has the makings of becoming a part of North Carolina history. Every object in the sale has a personal story directly connected to Gray, his mother, cousin, great-uncle or the Moravians who settled in Forsyth County, N.C. The 560-lot sale is a rare opportunity for North Carolinians to enjoy their heritage on a new level.

Elsewhere in this issue, as seen on page 6, I was glad Anne Gilbert sent along a value on old barn cupolas. These structures are everywhere where we live and many are pretty additions. I have often wondered myself what the stately provincial additions would be worth on the open market. Now that everyone will know they can be worth up to $800 apiece, I wonder how many will stay on the tops of barns and how many will find a home inside an urban loft somewhere.

On page 18 we offer you a sneak preview of our newly-designed Antique Trader. The issue will offer more pages, more color photos and more coverage on online sales and auctions. We will be keeping many of our popular features and adding new ones, and I think you’ll really be pleased with the final result.

This week’s guest column by dealer/picker Doug Singleton is the last contribution to our coverage on The History Channel’s “American Pickers” show. Rumor has it that a second season has been ordered. Stay tuned.

Eric Bradley
Editor

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Antique Trader columns cover a wide variety of antiques

Karen — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 18:36:58 GMT

Tips on finding good antique furniture; Q & A's on what your antiques and collectibles might be worth; antique dolls; art market analysis - you'll find it all on www.antiquetrader.com.

Here are some of our recent antiques, art, and collectibles columns:

Furniture Detective: Avoiding phony mahogany

Ask Antique Trader: Water cooler found at yard sale worth $400 to $500

Art Markets: LeRoy Neiman prints gaining momentum

Guest Column: How I paid my rent by thrifting - a favorite among Antique Trader readers

Postcard Album: Messages on humanitarian postcards still ring true

Furniture Detective: Veneer fact and fiction: Appreciating an age-old process

Speaking of Dolls: After 100 years, Bleuette still attracting new fans

Furniture Detective: Veneer fact and fiction: Appreciating an age-old process

This is a minute fraction of the wealth of information you will find on the Antique Trader Web site.

If you would like to see a specific topic covered, let us know: e-mail us at ATNews@fwmedia.com.

— Posted by Karen Knapstein

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Big changes to Antique Trader

Eric Bradley, editor — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 01:41:58 GMT

As all of our readers — be they collectors or dealers — have changed with the evolution of antiques trade, so have the publications that cover the hobby.

Our goal has always been to create a resource that is valuable and useful for all types of buyers and sellers. For the last few months we have been working behind the scenes to revamp and update Antique Trader into a publication that’s even more useful for antiques lovers. This includes a batch of new features, popular favorites, more pages, a new physical format and a closer association with our Web site for those of you on the go.

Did I mention more pages?

In the coming weeks we will introduce you to the new features and format, with the new Trader starting with the April 21 cover dated issue. Rest assured, all subscribers will continue to receive the same number of copies of the magazines each year. We just want to make them the best copies they can be.

I’d love to hear what you want to see with this change. Want more pictures and prices? More auction coverage? What do you need to be a better collector or dealer? Drop me a note at eric.bradley@fwmedia.com or call 800-726-9966, ext. 13233 and let’s talk.

We will, however, be making one change starting in the next issue. We will no longer be focusing on the North, East and West regions of the country. Instead we will concentrate more on photos, prices realized and shows. Once a month we will still focus on the South thanks to its popularity among readers.

American Pickers still a hot topic

In this issue we wind down the feedback from our March 3 cover story on The History Channel’s American Pickers television program. There is no doubt this show has struck a nerve. Next week’s issue will include a column by a professional picker who says there’s two sides to every transaction, but integrity looms large no matter what you’re selling.

We have a winner

A hearty congratulations is bestowed to Dennis Kluthe of Swansea, Ill., for winning the February Antique Trader Treasure Hunt Sweepstakes. Kluthe wins a four-volume set of hardcover books on historic postcards published by England’s Bodleian Library. The titles include Postcards from Utopia, Postcards of Lost Royals, Postcards from Checkpoint Charlie and Postcards of Political Icons. A special tip of the hat goes out to the thousands of people who entered for a chance to win. Thank you. The sweepstakes for March is for a copy of the newly updated Antique Trader Tools Price Guide, 3rd Edition by Clarence Blanchard, Krause Publications, 2010.

— Posted by Eric Bradley

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McCoy art pottery keeps Cabin Fever at bay

Eric Bradley, editor — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 20:55:58 GMT

Every so often a line from Pixar's Ratatouille pops in my head: "The world is often unkind to new talent, new creations ... the new needs friends."

So whenever a new shop opens up I try to be the first in line. Such was the case with a local shop that specializes in Art Deco and Mid Century Modern antiques and vintage furniture. It's a nice little shop tucked inside a two-story, brick building nestled in an aging downtown. Inside is a great assortment of consigned items and those resold by the shop owners.

On the first floor one can find Danish modern furniture and teak candlesticks, handsomely matched with Atomic 50s lamps and snack trays that are too cool for a thrift store but too new for an antiques shop.

I took my time and made sure to visit the basement. There on a shelf were two sleek green spheres peeking out from underneath shocks of dusty, dried eucalyptus stems poorly paired with clumps of burgandy silk flowers.

A closer look showed the bent stalks were crammed into a piece of florists foam that had been glued to the bottom of a nice pair of Nelson McCoy Art Deco vases from the 1940s. A quick rub of the thumb revealed their shiny glaze and the famous NM mark on the bottom.

The price sticker on the side said the pair were marked 75 percent off - about $5. The vases have a new home on our bookshelf - minus the eucalyptus.

Take some time to explore someplace new this weekend. We'd love to hear what you discovered.

Unusual antique and vintage table lamps - Separated at birth?

Karen — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 17:23:30 GMT

Those of you who visit this blog may get a little tired of me chatting about cool vintage lighting. Well, here's one more post on vintage table lamps you'll have to suffer through.

On my morning run around the Internet, I came across this neat little rusty vintage lamp. It's one of those odd items that makes you wonder about its original use.

The vintage metal table lamp features a scroll design and a pivoting bowl shade. It would look perfect in an industrial modern office, juxtaposed next to a sleek, chrome laptop.

In fact, this morning's little discovery reminded me of a French Art Deco lamp sold in January. I still haven't gotten enough of the vintage lighting offered at a recent 20th century decorative arts auction.

Although the rusty noggin found at Goodwill will probably end up selling for around $50, this gorgeous French nickeled brass and shagreen version brought brought $1,586 at Rago Auction.

Seeing them side-by-side it still makes me wonder: Separated at birth?

-posted by Eric Bradley

Antique Trader annual to the rescue

Karen — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 16:30:26 GMT

A couple of weeks ago, my family headed to Wisconsin Dells, a popular play-place in Central Wisconsin, to celebrate my daughter's birthday.

Of course, what's a trip anywhere without heading into some local antique shops and antique malls. We managed to make it to three shops before the child's feet gave out. Of course, I was paranoid with her touching everything she could ... "you break it - you buy it" was reverberating through my head.

I breathed a bit easier when she decided to stick to my husband's side rather than mine. You see, my husband and I don't walk through shops and flea markets together - we separate and each look on our own. It works for us.

Anyway, my family was waiting for me at the front of the mall, my daughter sitting pathetically on the floor because her feet and legs were tired, my husband waiting patiently, and I finally found something that "grabbed" me.

An Antique Trader Weekly annual. And at half price, too! From long before my time with the magazine started - 1982-1983 ... (let's see, I was a freshman in high school ... back then I wasn't the slightest bit interested in antiques) ... but now I want to go back through and read all the great features bound within its pages.

I could sit and read through it for hours: the evolution of the ice cream dipper; sewing machines; pie-making tools; Fostoria lamps; Staffordshire toy ware; Christmas seals; collecting washboards; the list of fabulous antique features goes on and on ...

Perhaps as I read through it I'll be inspired to start a new collection, or maybe revisit a subject or two in an upcoming issue of Antique Trader.

I guess even the Antique Trader is collectible now ...

The really great thing, the very next week, a collectibles club contacted Antique Trader inquiring about an old article on Christmas tree ornaments that was published back in 1982. Fate was watching out for all of us, because we found the article in the annual that I had just picked up. I get goosebumps thinking about it ...

Happy Hunting everyone!

— Posted by Karen Knapstein

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Chattanooga antiques market sees some promise

Eric Bradley, editor — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 17:10:56 GMT

I had the fortune to be interviewed by the Chattanooga Times Free Press last week for an article on the region's antiques trade. You can see the full article here. There is even a little audio on the definition of an antique.

The reporter, Tamara Best, did a great job in summarizing the businesses' ups and downs and even went the extra mile to add a few helpful hints from local shop owners and auctioneers. Some of the hints:

antique silver and oriental rugs are selling particularly well
utilize the Internet to sell
capitalize on social media
enhance their customer service, and
have a moderate rate of turnover

Each week I see more and more shop owners pop up on Facebook. This is a great way to generate some free publicity for your business.

What are some of the methods you are using to generate traffic, virtual or otherwise, into your shop? Feel free to share below.

-posted by Eric Bradley

Share your ‘secrets to success’

Karen — Fri, 12 Feb 2010 14:58:13 GMT

A wonderful, thought-provoking letter crossed my desk the other morning. It was in response to last issue’s regional focus story on Affordable Antiques of Naperville, Ill. [CLICK HERE to read the full article.] The writer liked the article but felt it was missing a few key points that are working for his business.

The author is Ron Curtis, owner of the Antiques & Collectibles Marketplace of Sacramento, Calif. He talks about how aspects such as location, dedication and reasonable rents are all vital contributors to a successful business.

However, Curtis brings up the subject of the importance of an active Web site. He does not use eBay for his sales. The sales are all driven through his own business site. How much? He says up to half of his business is conducted online.

That’s right. Half.

“We have 1,200 dolls on our Web site and are the last doll shop in Sacramento, with nine closing over the last 10 years, as they didn’t have a Web site,” he writes.

Curtis’ full letter will be published in a future issue. Until then, visit his Web site to see how it is organized and why it’s encouraging people to buy. You can find it at www.tace.com/ada.

Do you have a secret to success that helps you build a better collection or a better business? Please consider sharing by sending to the addresses below.
Welcome back Barbara

On page 10 we welcome the return of Barbara Andrews, author of the “Postcard Album” column. Barbara is back after a several month hiatus as she finished a new book. Believe me, you noticed. I received many letters from readers missing Barbara’s thoughtful columns. We’re glad to have her back. [CLICK HERE to read her most recent postcard column.]

Congrats!

Barbara Andersen of Brooksville, Fla., is the lucky winner of the Antique Trader Treasure Hunt Sweepstakes for January. She wins a new copy of Antiques Roadshow Behind the Scenes An Insider’s Guide to PBS’s #1 Weekly Show by producer Marsha Bemko.

Be sure to enter our February sweepstakes online for a chance to win a four-volume set of collectible postcard books from Bodleian Library of Oxford, England. The hardback set is an $80 value and includes Postcards of Lost Royals, Postcards from Utopia, Postcards from Checkpoint Charlie and Postcards of Political Icons.

— Eric Bradley

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Question of the Week: What do you think of American Pickers?

Karen — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 14:40:45 GMT

Eric Bradley wrote our cover feature this week on American Pickers.

CLICK HERE to read the article.

Is the public ready to watch how the antiques business really works? From what we've seen and heard, people either love it or hate it ... how about you? What do you think?

"Do you think the show American Pickers helps or hurts the antiques business?"

Replies may be sent to eric.bradley@fwmedia.com, or post a reply right here on the Antique Trader blog.

— Posted by Karen Knapstein

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It's truly a world full of art and antiques

Karen — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 20:06:55 GMT

and what better spotlight to show it off than at the Brussels Antiques and Fine Arts Fair? and, of course, in our newest edition of Antique Trader.

What do you think?

Mark F. Moran, senior editor for antiques & collectibles books at Krause Publications, took part in a press tour to Belgium for the 55th Brussels Antiques & Fine Arts Fair, Jan. 22-31. What follows are his reports from one of the world's most influential fairs, and accounts of visits to two new Belgian museums.

New museums entice art lovers to Belgium

Every picture (on this bookcase) tells a story

Museum treasures highlight BRAFA 2010

BRAFA: Between Continuity and Renewal

— Posted by Karen Knapstein

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Question of the Week: Pay (more) to have and to hold?

Karen — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 03:51:26 GMT

This week's Antique Trader Question of the Week:

When you have to pay rental on a storage unit to keep your collections – whether they're antiques or not – you have to consider that those costs are really investments into whatever it is you're storing ... making your stored items cost you more.

Under what circumstances do you think it is appropriate to pay money to store a collection of antiques and collectibles?

What are your thoughts on paying to store your antiques and collectibles?

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 right here on the Antique Trader blog.

— Posted by Karen Knapstein

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$104M sculpture becomes most expensive work ever sold at auction

Karen — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 21:43:11 GMT

Sotheby's today sold a life-size bronze sculpture by Alberto Giacometti for £65M, ($104M USD) setting the bar as the most expensive work ever sold at auction.

The piece is titled "L'Homme Qui Marche" and now ranks among Vincent van Gogh's esteemed "Portrait of Dr. Gachet," which sold for $83.5 million in 1990, and Pablo Picasso's "Garçon a la pipe," which sold for $104.1 million by Sotheby's New York in May 2004.

Press reports say bidders spent all of 8 minutes driving the price far beyond the sculpture's pre-auction estimate of £12m to £18m. The final bidder was anonymous and placed his bid through the telephone.

The £65m price tag includes the buyer's premium.

Giacometti (1901-1966) created a diverse body of work. The Swiss artist was considered primarily a contributor to the Surrealist Movement and worked as a sculptor, painter, draughtsman and printmaker. His L'Homme Qui Marche is considered by critics to be one of the most important works Giacometti ever accomplished.

-Posted by Eric Bradley

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'Lost' Georgia O'Keefe painting brings $225,150

Karen — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 21:02:37 GMT

Skinner, Inc., one of our favorite auction houses for the depth and breadth of their sales, yet again earned its reputation for being a savvy player in the fine art market. Its Jan. 29 American & European Paintings & Prints auction featured a number of important works and more than its share of curiosities.

Chief among these was the fantastic 'rediscovered' painting by American masterpiece artist Georgia O'Keeffe. Titled "," the painting was considered lost since the mid-1950s. It was last known to have been purchased by a Cape Cod collector. The piece is representative of O’Keeffe’s early work, describing “nature in her simplest appearance” and is indicative of O’Keeffe’s artistic relationship with modernist painter Arthur Dove.

The full auction listing can be seen here at SkinnerInc.com.

Take note that, once again, it's the hardworking, aggressive auction houses like Skinner that are discovering and selling these dazzling pieces.

-Posted by Eric Bradley

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Schroy holding book signing for Warman's Depression Glass

Karen — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 17:30:39 GMT

Author Ellen Schroy is holding a book signing for her latest work, Warman's Depression Glass, 5th edition, on Feb 14 at The Factory in Silverdale, Pa.

This 5th edition features wonderful new photographs in addition to the detailed pattern profiles offered for each pattern. This is the first hard cover edition of this comprehensive guide to colorful depression glass. She will discuss Depression Glass issues and research and give assistance in identifying patterns and makers. Schroy recently participated in the first ever Webinar for Antique Trader.

The Factory is a 10,000 sq foot renovated 19th century brick factory on West Main Street (Rt 113) in Silverdale, Pa. Its three floors of retail space are home to more than 40 quality dealers who present an ever-changing array of quality antiques and collectibles. Many will feature a special emphasis on Depression Glass during February.

To learn more about the book signing or to reach The Factory, call 215-453-1414.

-Posted by Eric Bradley

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Cloisonné vases abandoned in storage unit sell for $52,900 at auction

Karen — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 17:16:26 GMT

MERIDEN, Conn. – A pair of rare cloisonné vases, abandoned due to unpaid storage fees in Oxford, Conn., set a new auction house record Jan. 30 when they sold for $52,900 at Next Egg Auctions.

According to auctioneer Ryan Brechlin, the gavel price for the lotus blossom vases turned out to be a bit of a pleasant surprise. “They were in with more than 25 storage vaults from a Greenwich home.” Brechlin said. “Our early estimates for the pair were that they might sell for a couple thousand.”

Nest Egg Auctions had been contracted by Joyce Van Lines of Oxford to sell the contents of the vaults to satisfy storage liens on nearly $50,000 in unpaid fees. "It’s one of those contracts where we just sell what comes out of the vaults," Brechlin added. "You never know what might be in there."

When the vases came up for sale, the auction took on an international flair as a phone bidder telephoned in from London, some five time zones away where it was midnight. In the crowded auction hall a southern Connecticut buyer, who had closely examined the vases during the preview period, signaled his intention to make the vases his.

Cloisonné is an ancient technique for detailing metal objects. Shapes are outlined on the metal base with gold or silver wires. Colored enamel powder paste is carefully worked into the spaces and the object fired in a kiln.

Brechlin opened the bidding at $300 and the price soared, moving quickly as he shifted to $50, then $100, and then $500 bid points. Both the Connecticut buyer and the man in London showed no sign of dropping out. Bid points went to $1,000 and finally to $2,000 until the vases were sold to the live bidder at $46,000 plus a $6.900 buyer’s premium.

The crowd, many who had been holding their breath as the bidding soared higher, gave a standing ovation and cheered as the gavel slammed down on the sale.

-Posted by Eric Bradley

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New Antique Trader Sweepstakes Launched Feb. 1

Karen — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 21:41:38 GMT

I turned the calendar page this morning, which triggered a reminder for us to launch our February edition of the Antique Trader Treasure Hunt Sweepstakes.

We've got a fantastic prize for the February sweepstakes. Something that I absolutely KNOW our postcard enthusiast readers are going to LOVE.

What we're giving away to the lucky winner is a set of four hardcover postcard books published by Oxford University's Bodleian Library. Titles in the prize package include: Postcards from Checkpoint Charlie – Images of the Berlin Wall; Postcards of Lost Royals; Postcards from Utopia – The Art of Political Propaganda; and Postcards of Political Icons – Leaders of the Twentieth Century.

Each book has a cover price of $20, making the total prize package worth $80.

We'll be putting reminders to enter in each of our e-newsletters, but make sure you come back to http://sweepstakes.antiquetrader.com to enter each day for your best chance to win!

(Review Sweepstakes Rules)

— Posted by Karen Knapstein

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Don't miss the antique auction news

Karen — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 15:21:17 GMT

Here are some quick hits for upcoming estate and antique auctions and highlights of recent auctions:

February multi-estate sale will offer desirable stoneware, antiques, jewelry

Unique writing instruments to be offered during event dedicated to Montblanc - I know it's not an antique or estate auction, but as far as collectibles go, there are no finer writing instruments than these. They are absolutely stunning. I consider them art, in an unusual medium.

Affordable, entry-level collectibles spotlighted in latest Collect.com auction - Roughly one-third of the auction’s lots have budget-friendly minimum bids of $25 or less, including a collection of Ford Dealership sales brochures from the 1960s and 1970s.

Recently discovered Col. John S. Mosby Civil War speech in Los Angeles auction

Diverse offerings and buyer’s market will entice participants at Hatch auction - It's so exciting to have antiques from so many different categories offered in one auction ...

Thomaston Place sale offers diverse collections - another auction with so very much to offer!

Unusual, seldom-offered figural redware in Jan. sale - Crocker Farm auctions are always interesting.

Fascinating highlight of technological auction: Final sale of Remington Typewriter Museum draws worldwide interest

— Posted by Karen Knapstein

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