The Value Of Chinese Furniture Begins With The Wood
By Izzy Chait - Recently, some collectors of American and European furniture have made comments and asked questions about Chinese furniture, with a viewpoint based upon a false presumption that furniture in and from China is not as sturdy or as durable as Western furniture. I have to say this is not an accurate statement, and this concept, being false, should get put to bed immediately. [caption id="attachment_951" align="alignright" width="295" caption="Imperial Qianlong Period zitan throne chair sold for $12 million in October 2009 by Sotheby’s. (Photo, courtesy Sotheby’s.)"][/caption] A great deal of furniture has come out of China in the last couple of ...
A Real Page-Turner: The Thrill of Book Collecting
By Daniele Gair - In this day and age of 24-hour electronic connectivity and reading everything from the newspaper to “War and Peace” on a smart phone, one might get the idea that books are going the way of the telegraph. But there are still some of us who appreciate the value of having a good book in the hand, whether it’s a fresh paperback for relaxing summer reading or the aged beauty of a pristine first edition. [caption id="attachment_890" align="alignright" width="220" caption="Pooh Corner 1 - A 1928 signed, limited American edition of ''A House a Pooh Corner'' by A. A. Milne. ...
As Time Goes By: Antique Pocket and Wrist Watches
Daniele Gair - Of all the mechanical devices invented over the centuries, from cameras to cars, nothing beats the watch for its captivating combination of luxury and scientific significance. Originally made only for the very rich or very royal, the personal, portable timepiece has had its influence on commerce, exploration and transportation for nearly six centuries. A watch can indicate not only individual style, but also personal influence, affluence, not to mention one’s commitment to punctuality. Watches have been passed down as family heirlooms, given as a mark of accomplishment, and even carried into space. From the highly decorated to the ...
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The Value Of Chinese Furniture Begins With The Wood
By Izzy Chait - Recently, some collectors of American and European furniture have made comments and asked questions about Chinese furniture, with a viewpoint based upon a false presumption that furniture in and from China is not as sturdy or as durable as Western furniture. I have to say this is not an accurate statement, and this... [Read more]
A Real Page-Turner: The Thrill of Book Collecting
By Daniele Gair - In this day and age of 24-hour electronic connectivity and reading everything from the newspaper to “War and Peace” on a smart phone, one might get the idea that books are going the way of the telegraph. But there are still some of us who appreciate the value of having a good book in the hand, whether it’s... [Read more]
As Time Goes By: Antique Pocket and Wrist Watches
Daniele Gair - Of all the mechanical devices invented over the centuries, from cameras to cars, nothing beats the watch for its captivating combination of luxury and scientific significance. Originally made only for the very rich or very royal, the personal, portable timepiece has had its influence on commerce, exploration and transportation... [Read more]
Raise A Toast: Collecting Vintage Cocktail and Barware
By Daniele Gair - Many a Sunday afternoon has found me deeply engrossed in 1930s-Era detective stories, and two of my favorite sleuths are the swanky and stylish stars of the Thin Man series, Nick and Nora Charles. To my eyes, this couple had it all, from witty repartee to stylish cloths, and they exhibited a smooth sophistication,... [Read more]
Antique Rugs and Carpets
By Daniele Gair - Conjuring images of merchants haggling in dark, smoky rooms and of sultans flying through the night sky on enchanted carpets, antique rugs are among the most evocative of all collectibles. Their charm lies both in their exotic origins and in their timeless beauty. Though collecting these mysterious yet familiar... [Read more]
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