tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-65355046826329583692024-02-18T18:57:10.963-08:00Estate Liquidation & Antique Appraiser's NotesEstate Personal Property Liquidators and
Antiques Appraisers Operating Throughout
Southern California and North Orange CountyDavid B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/07343313047421058388noreply@blogger.comBlogger17125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6535504682632958369.post-40487563246092800022019-12-29T08:57:00.002-08:002020-01-10T23:12:10.913-08:00Self-Published Rarities You May Have in Your Own Bookcase<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfUuwhi3IEGbwy3WcsNgx4VqlpV928rmUc6tcVM-rctLgbjaOMbTlgF-mOWeYCGcNnzwyAdYuw7qK4UG-z-JvibiuzHCzDjlgt9wTzdEa1-p2MBHNFvZxt-IDUsSEqIQNw9WyvsI3YLdo/s1600/rapts1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="690" data-original-width="555" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfUuwhi3IEGbwy3WcsNgx4VqlpV928rmUc6tcVM-rctLgbjaOMbTlgF-mOWeYCGcNnzwyAdYuw7qK4UG-z-JvibiuzHCzDjlgt9wTzdEa1-p2MBHNFvZxt-IDUsSEqIQNw9WyvsI3YLdo/s200/rapts1.jpg" width="160" /></a>Coming across a rarity is always the fantasy of hard-core collectors. Our "eureka" moment occurred recently during a clean-out of a property in Southern California when we found a cache of six softcover pamphlets dating from the 1960's and 70's. These were self-published books - popular among unknown and budding artists looking to get their art and/or their philosophy of art to a wide audience.<br />
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In the case of these 48 page pamphlets - found languishing and long forgotten in a bookcase - the publisher was Ed Ruscha who put out these books in limited runs of under 3000.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivrcGxK5Z6vic_WDcCDvHBsyaSAiQGMt3GBi22B0xIeZ-rsbJyZXJ4WU1izK_H10648h2Z0YQhel5oFOQhEJxXy0K2eoDfn3uFl-0U3ZNN9X7QkA4WXdtA1QCxyknyaQH3Zz_1s7q0nwg/s1600/rfires5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="520" data-original-width="555" height="186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivrcGxK5Z6vic_WDcCDvHBsyaSAiQGMt3GBi22B0xIeZ-rsbJyZXJ4WU1izK_H10648h2Z0YQhel5oFOQhEJxXy0K2eoDfn3uFl-0U3ZNN9X7QkA4WXdtA1QCxyknyaQH3Zz_1s7q0nwg/s200/rfires5.jpg" width="200" /></a>These pamphlets, and similar self-published books by other psychedelic era artists may at first glance appear to be throw-away items, or at the very least candidates for Goodwill donation. Never judge a book by its cover.... Originally selling for under $4 each in their day, these self-published books now command between $500 and $2000 each. Not a bad return.<br />
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David B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/07343313047421058388noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6535504682632958369.post-26429060385918851022019-12-28T21:33:00.003-08:002020-01-10T23:28:10.535-08:00Collecting Ham Radio QSL Cards<div class="p1">
<span class="s1"><span style="font-size: large;">Amateur "ham" radio operators (so called due to their unwieldy "ham-fisted" operating of morse code telegraph keys in the early days of radio development), have been around since the turn of the 20th century. And although Millennials may consider amateur radio as an antiquated, obsolete hobby, nothing could be further from the truth. </span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-size: large;">Admittedly the number of amateur radio operators has significantly decreased in the last four decades, but they are still thriving as a low-key, tight-knit group of airwave enthusiasts. Even in today's technologically driven world, they will often appear prominently during times of natural disasters, as well as political and social unrest. Their ability to continue transmitting when digital and satellite communications are interrupted, have made them all the more invaluable due to high tech's vulnerability. </span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-size: large;">With regard to memorabilia, QSL cards are highly sought-after collectibles by amateur radio fanatics. As defined by Wikipedia, QSL cards are postcards - sent through the mail - and serve as confirmation of the reception of an amateur radio broadcast between two ham radio operators. They are called QSL cards after the universally defined radio Q code for the confirmation. Collecting of these cards first gained popularity with radio listeners in the 1920's and 1930's, and the reception reports were often used by early broadcasters to gauge the effectiveness of their transmissions (think of it as data-mining in today's tech terminology)</span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0RIDS99OAsIQFjKmOV9G40JAgvQZXvEwfhCJ8KzuHixc3JrTvyyVCOyfwXxGOE1qj804GK_urL4rni2XbSXluSfg1QTprC4tmoUkDSsSHdYSIa1jSJ35sCLSgdP0L02I12tTypNtngow/s1600/1aw2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="343" data-original-width="550" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0RIDS99OAsIQFjKmOV9G40JAgvQZXvEwfhCJ8KzuHixc3JrTvyyVCOyfwXxGOE1qj804GK_urL4rni2XbSXluSfg1QTprC4tmoUkDSsSHdYSIa1jSJ35sCLSgdP0L02I12tTypNtngow/s320/1aw2.jpg" title="" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Record auction-priced QSL postcard from 1923</td></tr>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-size: large;">Generally, QSL cards are printed and sent in very small quantities, and consequently they are all considered rather rare. Although the value of most QSL cards will range from $1 to $5, the actual valuation of rarer collectible QSL cards can depend on a large number of factors, including location (remoteness of country or city region), frequency ranges, mobile ham operations (ship, DXpeditions, etc.), and date of printing. Obviously, the rarer the card, the higher the price. The highest price paid for a QSL card was $2125 paid for a 1923-vintage HPM 1AW card on eBay. Not bad for a simple broadcast postcard.</span></span></div>
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David B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/07343313047421058388noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6535504682632958369.post-83003788557060782972017-03-09T00:24:00.000-08:002020-01-10T23:24:24.909-08:00Freedom To Collect the Press<span style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif; font-size: large;">We're
living in a time of great cultural and social revolution.</span><span style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif; font-size: large;">The internet is mankind's greatest modern
accomplishment, bringing the world to our fingertips.</span><span style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif; font-size: large;">But the web's integration into our everyday
life has also brought about some negative consequences, with longtime trades
and professions facing probable extinction.</span><span style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif; font-size: large;">
</span><span style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif; font-size: large;">Publishing has been the most affected by these technological changes,
with newspaper publishing in particular looking to remain relevant in today's
changing society.</span><span style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif; font-size: large;">History hobbyists and
collectors have been keen to take note of this evolution.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I
love newspapers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love the ability to physically
hold the news.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love the ability to read,
analyze, dissect and focus on a news story.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Unfortunately, news of today requires nimbly maneuvering around unwanted
pop-up ads, videos, and quickie two paragraph summations as opposed to
in-depth news coverage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As a result, I
have recently found the collecting of antique newspapers to be a particularly
satisfying pastime.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">The
collecting of newspapers is not an expensive hobby.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A mid-1800's newspaper can cost as little as
$10 - quite a bargain for the novice collector.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Another factor that makes newspaper collecting a freewheeling fun
experience is that there is no correct way to collect.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can tailor your collection to suit your
taste.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some people collect headlines,
while others collect for the advertisements.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Some collect for specific writers (Mark Twain, Arthur Conan Doyle or
Ambrose Bierce) while others may simply enjoy reading small town snippets of
the 19th century (DUI arrest of a horse & buggy).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But as with all other collecting disciplines,
there are some basic guidelines to follow if you wish to build a compelling
collection of value.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Condition
is an important factor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Early American newspapers
prior to the 1870's were printed on rag paper - i.e. paper with high cotton
fiber content - whereas latter newspapers were printed on inexpensive pulp
paper.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As a result, nearly all early newspapers
look and feel relatively new, while the pulp papers will discolor and
deteriorate over time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">To
most collectors, content and historical significance are important factors.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Coverage of a major U.S. Civil War battle
will command a higher price than one of lesser engagements of the same
period.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And although content is an important
aspect, demographics can also have impact on value.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A 1941 <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Honolulu
Star-Bulletin</i> newspaper with early coverage of the Pearl Harbor attack is
significantly more collectible than a <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">New
York Times</i> newspaper of the same date and content.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the context of historical significance, visual
impact can also drive up the value of a newspaper. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since many collectors like to frame and
display their collection, a newspaper featuring a compelling headline, or map
or picture is highly desirable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Finally,
there is condition.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This aspect to
newspaper collecting should be treated with thoughtful consideration in
relation to content.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For instance, collectors
will overlook the condition of a tattered 1850's San Francisco newspaper with California
Gold Rush content due to the paper's rarity, whereas a serious collector will
generally ignore a pristine 1790's New England newspaper with no particular
newsworthy story.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I am
often asked about fakes and forgeries.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>With regard to newspaper collecting, fakes and forgeries have not been a
serious problem in the marketplace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even
an amateur collector with basic familiarity of appropriate typeset and paper
content can readily spot a fake.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And
with few exceptions, fake newspapers intended to deceive a collector are
generally too cost prohibitive for forgers to reproduce.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Those exceptions include the first reporting
of General Washington's death (<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Ulster
County Gazette</i>, Jan 4, 1800) and the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">New
York Times'</i> report of Lincoln's assassination (Apr. 15, 1865).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you have either of those newspapers,
chances are you have authentic FAKES.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">In
today's collecting market, Colonial and Revolutionary War newspapers are highly
desirable (values are higher for American newspapers as opposed to British
newspapers' perspective),<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the Civil War,
the American West (including the plains Indian Wars), the California Gold Rush
and the Mexican-American War. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sought-after newspapers of more focused
content include the Titanic sinking, the Lizzie Borden murder, Battle of Little
Big Horn, Jesse James, Battle of Gettysburg, and the Alamo (and Texas
independence).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: large;">In
this era of shrinking news and claims of "fake" journalism, it's both
fascinating and profitable to look back on an institution that has shaped the
consciousness, the history and the make-up of America's character. </span></div>
David B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/07343313047421058388noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6535504682632958369.post-10957186173494535942016-07-14T23:33:00.000-07:002020-01-10T23:25:41.978-08:00Collecting = Happiness<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">It's
no surprise that everybody collects.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>King George V collected stamps, a hobby taken up by his granddaughter
Queen Elizabeth II.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Cartoonist Robert
Ripley collected exotic objects and turned his hobby into an amusement empire,
(Believe It or Not).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Demi Moore is said
to have an entire home stocked with her doll collection.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thomas Jefferson collected coins, as did John
Quincy Adams.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dan Aykroyd collects
police badges.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Johnny Depp collects
insects and rare books, and of course we're all aware of Jay Leno's expansive
car collection.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">My
family and friends have their own diverse collecting obsessions, ranging <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>from Mexican Folk Art, to salt shakers, to
cheesy lounge music LP's.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I personally collect
vintage wrist watches, and my wife - who delusively claims NOT to be a
collector - somehow manages to add to her already substantial holiday nutcracker
collection.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Collecting
has deep historical roots.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the 16th
century, a room of collected rare objects was known as a <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Kunstkabinett (or Cabinets of
Curiosities).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Historical or scientific
oddities were generally collected, but over the centuries, the art of
collecting turned to everyday items.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">There
are many conflicting theories on why people collect.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Psychologists agree that collecting tends to
evoke a positive emotion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For some, it
is the excitement of the hunt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For
others, it is the pride in ownership and the knowledge accrued along the
way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some collectors enjoy the
solidarity of like-minded hobbyists and take pleasure in sharing their
collection with others.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But for most,
collecting seems to be an intensely emotional experience that often provides
comfort, and invariably bonds people with pleasant memories.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Collecting
can also fill an emotional void, or provide psychological security.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A client recently expressed to me how she
and her husband shared a lifelong ardor for collecting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Although now widowed, she is still a fixture
at flea markets and estate sales, and continues to buy items to add. not only
to her own collection but to her husband's collection as well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However great her personal loss was, there is
a restorative and calming aspect to her collecting.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Readers
of my column have come to expect tips on collecting as an investment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is the practical view of
collecting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Unfortunately, collectors
are seldom very practical, and the average collector will rarely part with his
or her collection.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Author and historian
Mark Allen Baker reasons that most collectors are emotionally invested in their
collections.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As a world-class autograph
collector himself, Baker estimates that 90% of all autograph collectors will
never sell their collection.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Although
collectors undoubtedly know the monetary value of their possessions, the reality
is a collector sees his collection as an extension of his identity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">There
is also dark side to collecting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Like a
compulsive gambler or alcoholic, a collector may sometimes feel a greater need
to feed his collecting addiction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In exceptional
instances, an out of control collection can lead to financial hardship, marital
break-ups, or alienation of friends and family.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>A Hello Kitty-obsessed collector from the U.K. is one recent
example.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>29-year old Natasha Goldsworth
has spent the equivalent of nearly $75,000 US dollars to accumulate everything
related to the cartoon character, including over 4,000 plush cuddly toys.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She's now looking for a larger home to
accommodate her collection, and refuses to date any man not supportive of her
hobby.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If there are any unattached men
reading this, she's surprisingly still single!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Finally,
let's tackle the "H-word".<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>From my point of view, collectors should never be classified as
hoarders.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is a distinct
difference, and the general rule is that collectors are methodical.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They will neatly maintain and organize their
collection, and can easily access a particular item however massive the
collection.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Conversely, hoarders are
pathological in their collecting, and generally amass in a haphazard manner
without order or reason.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Fortunately,
most extreme collectors are not hoarders.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>They are keenly aware of their limitations, and will adjust their
collecting habit to fit their lifestyle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Bottom line is that collectors - extreme or otherwise - are generally
happy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You may not understand why a
50-year old man collects Hot Wheels, but you may have your own Victorian
toothpick holder fixation that baffles outsiders.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">There
should be no shame in collecting. The true joy of collecting is to preserve
memories, to touch history, to relieve stress, and to delight in connecting
with other cultures, other peoples, and other worlds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
David B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/07343313047421058388noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6535504682632958369.post-65846165954957649312015-12-14T11:07:00.001-08:002020-01-10T23:16:32.658-08:00Quickie Guide to Identifying Antique FurnitureIn antique-speak, the term "reproduction" is
any item made in the manner or style of the original.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These items are not meant to deceive, and are
often identifiable as being modern-day replicas.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>"Fakes" on the other hand, are
specifically designed to mislead the buyer, and determining their age or origin
is a bit more tricky.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fakes can even
fool an expert, and amateur collectors should take extra precautions in their
buying habits.<br />
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For prospective antique furniture buyers, here's a quick
primer to help in your quest: </div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">COMPOSITION</b></div>
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You don't have to be an expert in Xylology (the study of
wood), to identify a fake or reproduction, but a basic knowledge of wood and its
history in furniture making is helpful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Oak is probably the most common wood you'll find in your furniture quest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Oak is a popular hardwood component<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>in many older and newer pieces, and the
preferential wood used in European furniture prior to the 1700's.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the turn of the 1900's, oak found renewed
popularity in American furniture manufacturing.</div>
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Also popular into the first quarter of the 18th century,
both in Europe and the colonies, was walnut.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Cupboards, chairs and chests were frequently made from this wood.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>By the mid-1700's,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>mahogany surged ahead as a wood of choice due
to its beauty and durability.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mahogany was ideal for making fine furniture pieces
such as Chippendale dining sets. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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In the 1800's, maple was used more sparingly, but was
just as coveted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Birds-eye or tiger
grains added considerable style to furniture pieces and makers would often use
maple veneers to cover other lesser quality woods.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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If plywood or particle board is found anywhere in an
"antique" furniture item, it is a clear indication that it's a newer
piece.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">WORKMANSHIP</b></div>
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Older furniture can sometimes be dated by styles of dovetail
joints or types of nails used.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dovetails
are the interlocking "fingers" that connect two pieces of wood, as evident
on the sides of drawers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They were hand
cut to help strengthen the joint.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Two, three,
or four finger dovetails were used up to the late 1800's, and larger dovetails
usually signified simpler country-made furniture.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the 1870's, American furniture makers
replaced the traditional dovetail with a "pin and cove" style
(basically a round dovetail) that can be seen on Eastlake or Victorian furniture.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As aesthetically pleasing as it was, this
style never found popularity outside the U.S.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
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After the 1890's, furniture was being mass produced, and
factory machinery was able to replicate the hand cut dovetails with five or
more fingers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>English cabinetmakers
were the exception however.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They
continued to hand cut dovetails well into the late 1930's, but by the 1950's,
the entire industry switched to machine manufacturing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Today, nails and staples have replaced the
dovetail, and only specialty shops that replicate antique furniture uses the
centuries old dovetail process.</div>
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Nails are another easy age identifier.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Antique furniture nails, particularly before
1790, were hand forged and had a rose shaped head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Subsequent to 1790, the nails were machine
cut and the heads were forged by a blacksmith into a square shape.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>From 1830 to 1890, nails were machine cut
and had a rectangular appearance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After
the 1890's, nails were manufactured as we know the modern nail of today.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Contrary to popular belief, furniture makers
of the 19th century did use screws.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>These were hand forged after the 1830's and can be identified by their irregular
appearance.</div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">OVERALL APPEARANCE</b></div>
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When determining age, do an overall inspection.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most furniture work was done by hand tools
and will show "imperfections".<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Undulating surfaces of drawer undersides or backboards will indicate a
hand planer (prior to 1850's).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Circular
saw marks will indicate furniture likely made after the 1830's.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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Wood will shrink with age and the finish will
darken.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Joints, panels and inserts in
antiques will be irregular or loose fitting and can indicate a genuine older
piece.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Wood shrinks against the grain,
and consequently, an antique round table will measure slightly oval (longer at
direction of the grain).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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The original finish of an antique will have a naturally darker
patina, as opposed to an artificially distressed finish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Shellac was a commonly used finish prior to
the mid 1800's.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lacquer and varnish were
developed after the 1860's.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If your
piece has either of those two later finishes, it is a clear indicator that it
is a newer piece.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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When identifying antique furniture, a magnifying glass or
loop is a useful tool, as well as common sense.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You should look for imperfections and non-uniform hardware or
construction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With antique furniture, if
it's too perfect, it may not be the real thing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
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David B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/07343313047421058388noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6535504682632958369.post-73443702470340414582013-11-26T19:18:00.002-08:002020-01-10T23:33:36.098-08:00THERE'S VALUE IN EVERYTHING.... Yard Sale Treasure Finds<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I've been posting the high-end items that are rare estate sale finds. In this post, I'd like to focus on every-day items that anyone can find at flea markets, yard sales, or even in their own closet. Many "mundane" items are often marked for Goodwill donation or tossed in the rubbish bin (a big no-no). But it's very smart and financially responsible to do a bit of research to determine what kinds of treasures you have. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu1Skayj5MBgsA6EXugOqZ537EKz6lE8bFfQhgE3t5BSFD7qhi_VVN9HhW_ZTiI0sc_VsjdgLZjzCUqMr6RKmnuVMTKhVdVFq6LYIUXUVABQAnIi50VgXi-DRwAXmRcD7BaQAWakOXeCo/s1600/Chamberlain.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu1Skayj5MBgsA6EXugOqZ537EKz6lE8bFfQhgE3t5BSFD7qhi_VVN9HhW_ZTiI0sc_VsjdgLZjzCUqMr6RKmnuVMTKhVdVFq6LYIUXUVABQAnIi50VgXi-DRwAXmRcD7BaQAWakOXeCo/s200/Chamberlain.JPG" width="150" /></a></span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">During a recent yard sale excursion, I found four signed costume watercolor and ink drawings marked for $4. The drawing, signed by "Santiago," each measured approximately 15" x 20". None of the drawings were identified, but after a bit of online research, I discovered that the drawings - by Emile Santiago - were from the 1950 motion picture, THE ROBE, starring Jean Simmons, Richard Burton and Victor Mature. Unfortunately, these wardrobe drawings were for secondary actors, but they nonetheless sold for $50 to $85 each (if I had found drawings for the principal actors for this film, the price could have gone as high as $500 each).</span><span style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit9ToE0-dUKcAQDc3XR3_n343z7ohc8cn7TVxAoY44kUm6GOpINBmHpjUEzR4KYFoUvnGMYkeUE8nL5pSuXDsGtS6Medqzm4mhWYJxAqJdGvsUmwGPyYLN91u-r1fv0Og__xG6Pza_NUE/s1600/AAA2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkBNXH5WxYWGSiMBOJy5Ab4mi1aRtGElydJeHZLHu85lFB40NnyWiZ8GUl4BNBEPXuZkO8OTRJWnj_Tx2Po6y13HVmdW5RpGgOo-w5gUNoDiO_z9tjs9jWGdMh0LLMlKT4fQ7CtDI51sQ/s1600/DisneyPaintNumber.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"></span></a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">In the coming weeks, I will be posting more cheap yard sale finds, and suggestions of what buyers should look for, and in the case of sellers, what not to throw away. Keep checking back with our blog</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQMWe_PkYIG8KR-CG9hQxD306NVTwhDtHb4PQYmI0jxlhDW6AIvp9Q2PbhaO4mrVyT1iMYVh4P5wBw_zGPY6v7IOCIF7FXBsXkEhbXjq8H0089Hk03Y3BlGflEdVrPCJPYILCQar2cpo0/s1600/WShirt.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQMWe_PkYIG8KR-CG9hQxD306NVTwhDtHb4PQYmI0jxlhDW6AIvp9Q2PbhaO4mrVyT1iMYVh4P5wBw_zGPY6v7IOCIF7FXBsXkEhbXjq8H0089Hk03Y3BlGflEdVrPCJPYILCQar2cpo0/s200/WShirt.JPG" width="140" /></a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Another goodie we pulled from a pile of to-be-donated clothes was a vintage 1960's H Bar C embroidered western shirt. It was in excellent condition and subsequently sold online for $275. Apparently, any vintage western clothing with a label from H Bar C or Nudies brings big bucks, not only in America, but all over the world. The new proud owner of the shirt lives in Paris (not Texas), France. C'est bon y'all....</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit9ToE0-dUKcAQDc3XR3_n343z7ohc8cn7TVxAoY44kUm6GOpINBmHpjUEzR4KYFoUvnGMYkeUE8nL5pSuXDsGtS6Medqzm4mhWYJxAqJdGvsUmwGPyYLN91u-r1fv0Og__xG6Pza_NUE/s1600/AAA2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="130" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit9ToE0-dUKcAQDc3XR3_n343z7ohc8cn7TVxAoY44kUm6GOpINBmHpjUEzR4KYFoUvnGMYkeUE8nL5pSuXDsGtS6Medqzm4mhWYJxAqJdGvsUmwGPyYLN91u-r1fv0Og__xG6Pza_NUE/s200/AAA2.JPG" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">If you have a hard time finding good yard sales, you probably need a good map. However, in the case of the maps pictured here, they were found in a dusty box of miscellaneous papers. I bought the maps for whopping $3. These twelve maps from the Automobile Club of Southern California, were road routes from various parts of California circa 1915-1920. Vintage maps usually bring good money, but only if they are of desired locations such as major urban American cities. These maps sold online for approximately $150. </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkBNXH5WxYWGSiMBOJy5Ab4mi1aRtGElydJeHZLHu85lFB40NnyWiZ8GUl4BNBEPXuZkO8OTRJWnj_Tx2Po6y13HVmdW5RpGgOo-w5gUNoDiO_z9tjs9jWGdMh0LLMlKT4fQ7CtDI51sQ/s1600/DisneyPaintNumber.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkBNXH5WxYWGSiMBOJy5Ab4mi1aRtGElydJeHZLHu85lFB40NnyWiZ8GUl4BNBEPXuZkO8OTRJWnj_Tx2Po6y13HVmdW5RpGgOo-w5gUNoDiO_z9tjs9jWGdMh0LLMlKT4fQ7CtDI51sQ/s200/DisneyPaintNumber.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Finally, how about paint by number artwork. You may not realize that this kind of kitschy artwork brings some good money, especially those of animals or unique places. In my own yard sale trek, I found three vintage Disneyland scene paintings from the early 1960's which were marked for 25-cents each. Had these cardboard canvases been unpainted, in their original box, they would sell for between $50 and $75. In their current condition, they may be work $7 to $10 each. Not big money, (and certainly not in the Monet league), but well above the change I plucked down for this artwork. </span></span><br />
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David B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/07343313047421058388noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6535504682632958369.post-1505006897071992952013-11-23T02:30:00.000-08:002019-12-29T09:04:04.623-08:00BBC Documentary Casting Light On the World of Art AppraisingJust saw a very fascinating BBC documentary show last week that detailed the process for authentication of a supposed Monet painting entitled <i><b><span lang="fr">Bords de la Seine à Argenteuil. </span></b></i>The owner of this painting had been trying to authenticate this painting for almost two decades. Art expert Philip Mould attempted to navigate the murky and complex art establishment world and found that - at least in the case of presumed Monet artworks - one authority, in the form of the Parisian-based Wildenstein Institute, has a veritable world monopoly on Monet authentication.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ9mbqsBJ6dTf2PWGwPlntpCRIH9BEkBarxvq1EcvYsCjSjwSGc6eeiavu6Ys_Ms94NVQ8EU4_8QUkmGs68saNBkbGPNqSJ7swxhbFeFQPUKKzjD1Cz7IzcwuGeGHM8aH6dptNoLimnXM/s1600/Bords_de_la_Seine_a_Argenteuil_-_Monet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ9mbqsBJ6dTf2PWGwPlntpCRIH9BEkBarxvq1EcvYsCjSjwSGc6eeiavu6Ys_Ms94NVQ8EU4_8QUkmGs68saNBkbGPNqSJ7swxhbFeFQPUKKzjD1Cz7IzcwuGeGHM8aH6dptNoLimnXM/s320/Bords_de_la_Seine_a_Argenteuil_-_Monet.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><span lang="fr">Bords de la Seine à Argenteuil</span></b></i></td></tr>
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During the course of the documentary, the filmmakers and art experts researched and pieced together historical records and conducted a barrage of tests to determine this painting's pedigree. This concrete documentation was formally presented to the Wildenstein Institute in Paris [the institute which had previously denied the painting's authenticity on numerous occasions in the past]. Without reviewing the incontrovertible evidence of authenticity, and without explanation, the Institute again denied that this was a genuine Monet. In effect, their denial of this work casts a pall of illegitimacy on this painting and locks it out of the art world market. <br />
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Since this documentary first aired in the UK in 2011, most world-renowned art experts have reviewed the documentation and have steadfastly affirmed that <i><b><span lang="fr">Bords de la Seine à Argenteuil </span></b></i>is an authentic Monet. The Wildenstein Institute however, is still unmoved.<br />
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Some art authorities believe that the Institute is hoping the painting eventually finds its way to the market, where they can pick it up at a low sum and do their own follow-up research, and then miraculously confirm its authenticity. Others claim that if the Wildenstein Institute reverses its position after so many years of denying the painting's authenticity, this reversal will undermine its own prominence as the dominant authority in the art world. Whatever the reason, the Institute has opened itself up to criticism and condemnation for what some claim is its pompous and arrogant attitude (what the Institute calls its "connoisseurship"). Yet, this one sole entity still wields supreme power in the art world when it comes to the authenticating the works of Monet. <br />
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This is a fascinating story, and I encourage all who are interested in art to research the internet on the Wildenstein Institute, and the patriarch founder of the Wildenstein dynasty, Daniel Wildenstein. David B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/07343313047421058388noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6535504682632958369.post-13934371666138476872013-09-26T22:02:00.001-07:002020-01-10T23:34:28.129-08:00Agathon Leonard Bronze<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYHj9pdNnVJwbLwcskOJVMu7bLexu5U5NWjfMFwUmEqWA9rn-wUB6hwnA2WWYZzzOG8xPgPQaqng6lGqYyjVyKcce8cRssuKp2VHJ0Zb5tBeoc7_HM5H4JoMI4V-L18IPPrTfFZETpQu8/s1600/P1080677sm.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYHj9pdNnVJwbLwcskOJVMu7bLexu5U5NWjfMFwUmEqWA9rn-wUB6hwnA2WWYZzzOG8xPgPQaqng6lGqYyjVyKcce8cRssuKp2VHJ0Zb5tBeoc7_HM5H4JoMI4V-L18IPPrTfFZETpQu8/s400/P1080677sm.JPG" width="177" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">AGATHON LEONARD BRONZE</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">We have another estate sale coming up in October. This sale is chock-full of great antique and vintage items. In the coming weeks, I'd like to profile some of those items and give a little back-story. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">This blog will focus on a bronze statue by <span itemprop="description">Agathon Léonard (1841-1923). </span></span><span itemprop="description"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Léonard was a French Art Nouveau sculptor. Having studied at the <i>Ecole des Beaux-Arts de Paris</i>, he became a member of <i>Societe des Artistes Francais</i> in 1887 and a member of the <i>Societe Nationale des Beaux-Arts</i>. In 1900, he was made a chevalier of the <i>Legion d'Honneur</i>. He is known for his studies of dancers, with his most renowned sculpture inspired by Lois Fuller (pioneer of modern dance), which was displayed as a centerpiece at the 1900 World's Fair at the <i>Pavillon de Sevres</i> in Paris. Leonard has produced works in marble, quartz and ivory.</span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: xx-small;"> </span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span itemprop="description"><br /></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The bronze pictured will be offered for sale at the October Claremont sale. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span itemprop="description">Recent auction results for bronze dancer statues vary, and often command prices in excess of $4000, to a high of $22000 for </span>"Danseuse au Tambourin ", signed, Sussex Frères Paris foundry.</span></span></span>David B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/07343313047421058388noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6535504682632958369.post-7578322799050910572013-08-31T15:15:00.003-07:002013-11-26T19:26:51.245-08:00DON'T THROW IT AWAY!<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">We have a mantra that we continually recite to our clients...."<u>NEVER</u> throw anything away." </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Whether or not you believe you have items that deserve a place in a landfill, you could very well be tossing out hundreds or thousands of dollars worth of merchandise. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">An example of a 35mm Las Vegas travel slide</span></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">A perfect example of this occurred several months back. We met with a client representing the estate of her father. Aside from his profession as a military contractor, he was also a traveler and a very accomplished hobbyist photographer from the 1940's - 60's. The client did not believe his photographs were worth anything to anybody and tossed out thousands of 35mm slides. After evaluating the estate, we determined that many of these lost photos were of early Las Vegas, Beverly Hills and the Sunset Strip, military sites and general travel pics. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">From past sales experience, we determined that some of these photos could have been worth up to $40 each (particularly the early Las Vegas slides). We conservatively estimated that somewhere between <b>$1300</b> and<b> $3500</b> in slides were forever lost. Who buys these slides? How about historic archives and stock photo agencies. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">A good (but all too late) lesson learned. </span><br />
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David B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/07343313047421058388noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6535504682632958369.post-3064918425728389102013-08-29T08:39:00.001-07:002013-08-31T13:57:21.842-07:00<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">We completed a very successful sale, and are now cleaning up (the unfun part of this job). It may take us a few days, but we expect to have the home in "sell-ready" condition by Thursday. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Of the unique items we had on hand, we were able to sell a c. 1910 banjo uke; a couple of original gouache and watercolor illustrations dating from the 1920's (the artist was Charles Charleton, who created early 20th century movie poster art for Universal, and later Castle Films. I will be posting some of the images later this month); and the big sellers: exquisite John Stuart, France & Sons, and Peter Wessel Mid-Century furniture. The owners/clients got good money for these items, and the buyers got great deals. Everyone appears very happy with the outcome of the sales. </span>David B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/07343313047421058388noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6535504682632958369.post-38274923322789659422013-08-21T13:00:00.001-07:002013-08-29T08:21:09.148-07:00<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilKeGolcFImYpgyTioZA2H4VTaMCmXkl4oIybRnnKeSq8i_z9Wl4WCHBNowfGpT42XOPNH847NKv4xEa4IJAubyRwLo-5Jgxqc4DjJ2dmPNbBHJX7tju2Vet8Cr_gpomwq8cBpa1u2kAk/s1600/A3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilKeGolcFImYpgyTioZA2H4VTaMCmXkl4oIybRnnKeSq8i_z9Wl4WCHBNowfGpT42XOPNH847NKv4xEa4IJAubyRwLo-5Jgxqc4DjJ2dmPNbBHJX7tju2Vet8Cr_gpomwq8cBpa1u2kAk/s200/A3.JPG" width="120" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">We're putting the finishing touches on the estate sale. It starts tomorrow Thursday, August 22, at 8am. The address is ***************, Glendora, CA 91741. Lots of goodies for everyone. </span></span>David B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/07343313047421058388noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6535504682632958369.post-8781786212406966992013-08-19T21:28:00.003-07:002013-11-26T19:27:53.077-08:00Big Estate Sale Find on ANTIQUES ROADSHOW<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Boy, I could scream.... </span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZxGlJ0Kf8aB4rJh7DlN4gEgNBP8ScD0_xypWv3U8xbQHjTwBpBwohEupLjcKIADMogevIgehCdSvS7L8z_iSueJJdMMfB4ZIEZM9v-XtCpmo4F2klCeQ9vlY8Nc60Rm6ZVqk0CpYUM24/s1600/aroadshow_washdc3_t614.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZxGlJ0Kf8aB4rJh7DlN4gEgNBP8ScD0_xypWv3U8xbQHjTwBpBwohEupLjcKIADMogevIgehCdSvS7L8z_iSueJJdMMfB4ZIEZM9v-XtCpmo4F2klCeQ9vlY8Nc60Rm6ZVqk0CpYUM24/s320/aroadshow_washdc3_t614.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">When we tackle estate sale jobs, we are ALWAYS attentive to the possibility of treasures contained in the home. We research many of the items, either on the internet or in our library of specialized antiques and collectibles reference books. It may take us a bit longer to get set up, but we nearly always maximize the amount of money collected for the client. That is why I banged my head against the coffee table when I watched tonight's episode of <b><i>"Antiques Roadshow"</i></b> from Washington, D.C.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The guest on the show brought in a signed oil on board painting by Jessie Wilcox Smith. He found it at an estate sale where the painting was separated from the frame, and were sold individually for $90 (painting) and $10 (frame). Obviously the person organizing the estate sale thought that he/she could maximize sales by separating the two. However, if this person had just taken some initiative and done some quick research, he/she would have discovered that this artist is highly desirable. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The estate lost BIG TIME and the buyer was the BIG WINNER. The painting was appraised at $75,000 in as-found condition, and if cleaned and restored, it could easily sell for over $100,000 at auction. </span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">For people hiring estate liquidators, PLEASE know the persons who you're hiring and make sure they're competent and know what they're doing. </span>David B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/07343313047421058388noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6535504682632958369.post-8052435008087688012013-08-18T10:16:00.003-07:002013-11-26T19:35:58.357-08:00What Is It???<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Whenever we conduct an estate sale, we always come across something - that one unique item - that makes us scratch our head with dumbfounded curiosity. Yes, we are appraisers. Yes, we deal in antiques and collectibles on a regular bases and consider ourselves generally knowledgeable. But there are times when we are genuinely stumped and have to hit the books to determine what we have. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">This time, we came across a wooden stick with sterling tips on either end (stamped Reed & Barton on one end, and the words "Run For Your Life" on the other). This stick measures approximately 15.4" long. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">There were many guesses in our camp at what it could be....a riding crop...a baton for conducting...an officer's crop....etc. Many guesses, but that's what they were, just guesses. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">After a bit of research, we found out that this is a Victorian jogging stick. These were only manufactured for a couple of years, and were used to fend off stray dogs that would nip at runners (in the Victorian era, leash laws were not enforced and dogs - domestic and otherwise - would run wild). If a runner encountered an overly curious dog on his outing, he would bop the dog on the nose with the stick.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">This is a great job....You learn something new every day!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"></span><br />David B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/07343313047421058388noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6535504682632958369.post-9190286868390859182013-08-17T00:14:00.002-07:002013-08-17T00:15:17.362-07:00<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg96yDj73IPvc2utgYtXX8Ju4FJMnrgpHmfmri2DhyphenhyphenDtPaFfHvyhP7WxaK35cRfut4pb32gfnzpeuAKLfJ0mvVMfWTNn7YV8UUf8znlj-YMu8l-X2K95QthBl8Pi_UrmrREAmSPOWZeV1U/s1600/P1080417sm.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="201" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg96yDj73IPvc2utgYtXX8Ju4FJMnrgpHmfmri2DhyphenhyphenDtPaFfHvyhP7WxaK35cRfut4pb32gfnzpeuAKLfJ0mvVMfWTNn7YV8UUf8znlj-YMu8l-X2K95QthBl8Pi_UrmrREAmSPOWZeV1U/s320/P1080417sm.JPG" width="320" /></a>Estate sale coming up next week in Glendora, August 22-24. There will be a whole array of fun items, antique, vintage an otherwise. To get a more complete description of what's coming up, along with dozens of pics, please click <a href="http://www.estatesales.net/estate-sales/488616.aspx">here</a>. <br />
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More information will be added as we get closer to the sale. Hope to see you all there. <br />
<br />David B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/07343313047421058388noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6535504682632958369.post-15891414544510258682013-08-16T09:16:00.001-07:002013-11-23T02:56:23.600-08:00<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUKx3sgzOVlRbOD9u6TDfF2n7HW9cKw97Wb-ObQhY9gwxs5QxbnJP0zeacULkZ1gcOv3s2S4JqyKlxwul8vrg9TIvt5jNtn7RiIVpha9TuqTu4_NcDk9hteVd7gJON-ErVbz_aIgJudIY/s1600/DavidMickey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUKx3sgzOVlRbOD9u6TDfF2n7HW9cKw97Wb-ObQhY9gwxs5QxbnJP0zeacULkZ1gcOv3s2S4JqyKlxwul8vrg9TIvt5jNtn7RiIVpha9TuqTu4_NcDk9hteVd7gJON-ErVbz_aIgJudIY/s320/DavidMickey.jpg" width="238" /></a>Took a wee break from setting up next week's sale. We were invited to Galeria Sparta on the Sunset Strip for the opening of an art showing by Richard Grieco. A wonderful event. For the second time in my life, I had the opportunity to meet and chat with Mickey Rooney (the first time was over 20 years ago when Mr. Rooney accidentally walked into my PR office on Sunset. He was offered some coffee and stayed for over an hour relating some stories of Patton, Bugsy Siegel, Ava Gardner, Judy Garland, etc). This guy's a true legend whose life spans film's history.<br />
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On the business side, the gallery owner was infinitely pleasant and there may be a strong opportunity to effect more fine arts appraisals in the West Hollywood/Beverly Hills region. I will keep you posted on what transpiresDavid B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/07343313047421058388noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6535504682632958369.post-49868519584603281912013-08-14T09:36:00.000-07:002013-08-14T09:36:28.062-07:00<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> SCAM ALERT...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Despite what you think, the nation's still not out of its economic woes. As a result, more "professional" estate liquidators have cropped up in recent years (almost tripled in the L.A. region in the last year). Many of the newer liquidators are legitimate people trying to start up a new business, but some seem to have less than honest motives. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Yesterday, we met with a couple from out of state. They were in L.A., looking to liquidate the personal property of a relative who recently passed away. The contents of the property was minimal, but there were some nice sell-able items, including a large doll collection, Disney memorabilia, Wizard of Oz collectibles, etc. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Prior to our meeting, the couple had met with a number of other local liquidators to evaluate the property. One particular liquidator strongly suggested that the couple take a write-off by donating all the home's contents to charity. Because the couple was from out of town, the liquidator, of course, would coordinate the charity pick-up on their behalf, and empty the home's entire contents. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">The couple was quick to realize that there was something wrong with this offer. In essence, they felt that this liquidator was asking permission to STEAL anything of worth, and then donate the discards to charity (charities don't itemize all items, so there's no way for the client to determine quantity of goods donated). </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">For any reader of this blog, please <u><b>do not</b></u> go with a liquidator who cannot provide stellar recommendations (the above liquidator has been in business for only a year and was unable to provide the client with more than 2 recommendations). If possible, attend an estate sale conducted by those who you're considering. Most legitimate liquidators will be excessively busy and should have a sale scheduled every few weeks. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Despite being a business, estate liquidations also has a personal component. The liquidator should have some empathy and respect for the client, as well as the property that must be liquidated. In all cases, go with the liquidator that makes you feel most comfortable and who provides you with the knowledge that they are working <u>with</u> you, and not for you. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Finally, <u><b>do not</b></u> hire a liquidator who is not willing to detail what they can sell, how they can sell it, and who - after the sale is complete - is unable to provide even a cursory itemization of what has sold. Household property does not belong to the liquidator. They are merely agents tasked to sell the goods at the highest dollar amount. </span><br />
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David B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/07343313047421058388noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6535504682632958369.post-65169033224247080912013-08-13T21:37:00.001-07:002013-08-13T21:37:28.453-07:00<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Hey Kids, </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXpaB6LMYncocxVHzvbjsbnT1jLLoLd3qWoElqmhSsxBa2BfcYfsrxAqhAcjF_xtDA_9P4wRxOTRQn27QB00rRBavMAJ-8s6P4bhpFkwQaV43sra8Ly4LcZSYS-4hJ9pqvBneUahrYHiA/s1600/roadsterSmall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXpaB6LMYncocxVHzvbjsbnT1jLLoLd3qWoElqmhSsxBa2BfcYfsrxAqhAcjF_xtDA_9P4wRxOTRQn27QB00rRBavMAJ-8s6P4bhpFkwQaV43sra8Ly4LcZSYS-4hJ9pqvBneUahrYHiA/s320/roadsterSmall.jpg" width="205" /></a>Welcome me to the 21st century. I finally got the blog up and running. Took me forever since web techno geeks have a very bad habit of providing overly complicated instructions in a language they specifically created to baffle and confound the layman (somewhat like trying to understand Trekie who's speaking to you in Klingon). </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Anyway, you're invited to be a part of our estate liquidation family. We have 2 to 3 estate liquidations a month, and will keep you posted on what's available -- antique, vintage or otherwise. We'll also discuss a wide range of topics relating to the antiques and liquidations field on this blog. Hopefully the reader and poster alike will learn much more as we progress. And please be patient as we work out any bugs we expect to encounter in the blog world.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Stay with us, and you'll have fun. And if you're in the L.A. area, sign onto our website and ask to be put on our email list for upcoming sales. We're located at <a href="http://www.cbrunoantiques.com/">www.cbrunoantiques.com</a>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">- David</span>David B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/07343313047421058388noreply@blogger.com0