Antiques -> Decorative Arts -> Stemware

How do you tell an antique goblet from an antique cup or mug? Goblets are stemware, with the earliest goblets made from earthenware and then expanding to other stronger materials as the years passed. The use of goblets pre-dates the Roman Empire, though the real explosion of their use occurred in Roman times. They created goblets from many different types of materials like pottery and even lead, for the common masses, while the elite and upper classes of their society used goblets made from glass and precious metals.

Glass goblets were refined chiefly by the Venetian Empire, with glass goblets still produced in Italy and the USA today. Antique goblets are rarely those made from glass, simply because glass is breakable. An antique goblet found today is most likely made from metal, which is a more durable and long-lasting material.

An antique medieval goblet, for example, would likely be made from a mixture of metals or even wood. Wood was used for many eating materials and even carved into stemware because it was so readily available and easy to work with. An antique wooden goblet from medieval times would have been more likely to belong to common people, where a metal goblet might have been used by the more wealthy. The highest classes also used glass and crystal goblets, often with detailed embellishments on the stems or with fancy handles. While antique medieval goblets are those from that time period and wonderful pieces of history, many goblets you’ll find for sale are called vintage medieval or medieval-inspired. Those are contemporary pieces merely bearing medieval designs, not antiques.

An antique goblet found today most likely would not have been used for many years, as collectors prefer to display them and keep them in good repair. While most will be metal, it is possible to find glass antique stemware, particularly in auctions from Venice and Murano Italy.

When purchasing a glass antique goblet, there are many things to consider. And while auctions are a great resource for finding these, it’s best if you can examine the goblet firsthand before purchase (or get a guarantee before purchase and examine it immediately upon arrival). First, determine whether the glass stemware has ever been broken or damaged and repaired. If you’re purchasing through an auction, read the details and ask questions. A glass goblet can be glued in such a way that it’s invisible. If you hold it up to a black light, however, the imperfection will show. Ask if the goblet will hold up under such an examination. Fakes are also a problem, which usually require examination by an expert to detect.

Also, the type of glass used in the antique goblet is important. Some older glass manufacturers used high alkali glass which breaks down over time. This glass will have a distinct odor, and may even “sweat” as molecules in the air react with the glass. If the glass is in this state of decay, it’s not a good investment.

Originally posted 2008-10-10 14:00:24. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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When it comes to collecting different types of wine, one of the more popular options for collecting is to try out different types of rare wine. One example of a rare wine that you may want to consider is known as ice wine. Ice wine is regarded as being one of the most precious types of wine because it is only created during a particular weather condition. The ice wine variety of rare wine is primarily produced within the Northwestern Pacific area.

It seems to be an irony to many people that in our world today, anything that is created using a supreme level of quality is also made in a very small quantity, but this is how many rare wine varieties actually end up working. The highest quality and the lack of availability is what make ice wine so absolutely precious and such a rare wine.

Only a few lucky people that have enough money on hand can avail themselves of these precious products. Just as if it were a diamond, Ice Wine is also capable of falling in this elite league of rare products that we all dream about and all eventually hope to be capable of experiencing. Ice Wine is tricky to produce on account of the fact that it relies so heavily on the weather for it to be produced. When the precise necessary weather condition does arrive, the wine maker is responsible for producing this truly priceless wine in desired quantities.

The production of ice wine involves grapes that are fully ripened and temperatures between -13 degrees Celsius and 8 degrees Celsius.

The entire ice wine making process has to be completed quickly, in a very short amount of time. This is why ice wine is such a rare wine. Usually the grapes are plucked in the night time while they are frozen, and they are harvested completely by hand rather than by any other means. For a single bottle of ice wine, the entire vine worth of grapes may be required. After the grapes have been collected by the wine maker, they will be very delicately pressed because only the free running juice is harvested from the grapes. The frozen water, the sugars and other particles that are in the juice will ferment together to create this unique blend of ice wine.

In other words, this is a rare wine for a reason – It is a tricky to make variety of wine that cannot be easily made or readily made based on supply and demand. When it is made available, which is clearly rare, ice wine has to be offered at a premium price so that every bottle is cherished and cared for and collected by people that understand its rarity. If you are interested in collecting rare wine, consider adding a unique bottle of ice wine to your collection today.

Photo Credits: bdjsb7

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Some people falsely believe that the passion for accumulating a variety of antique treasures in an antique collection is an addiction, such as being a pack rat, but this is not actually true. The truth about going antiquing is that while it may be infectious, it is certainly not a disease and there is nothing wrong with having a passion for going out and looking for your favorite objects, especially since antiquing is a sure fire way for you to improve your mood. The feeling that stirs up our interest in going out looking for antiques is definitely a universal one among collectors. People who go out looking for collectibles are enjoying themselves, having a ball and feeling good all around.

A lot of people who regularly visit flea markets and other popular sources for collectibles meet a lot of other people who are just like them. These people enjoy the art of creating an antique collection so much that they actually become relaxed by it. Browsing through these second hand stores, flea markets and other places for antiquing collectibles is popular because it is an inexpensive habit and allows us to collect a wide variety of different things without spending an arm and a leg in order to do so.

Improving upon our mood while we are out hunting for treasures is not only a psychological thing because there is also a physiological explanation attached to it as well. Shopping has been considered to be therapy for many people, and buying antiques or starting an antique collection can prove to be a really beneficial form of therapy because just like exercise, shopping can boost the feel good chemicals that are associated with mood, such as the runners high, or how people feel who take Zoloft or Prozac. For some people, shopping for antiques is capable of providing a thrill that is capable of offsetting a bad mood. Finding things that are exciting can build tension, adding significantly to the thrill and making antique hunting even more enjoyable and therapeutic accordingly.

Hobbies can become boring when finding collectibles for an antique collection becomes too simple. This is one of the most prevalent reasons for why seasoned antique collectors choose to spice up their collections by consistently upgrading the collections that they have, looking for rare antiques and other pieces and constantly hunting for more. People have found that becoming more selective about what they purchase allows them to add a suitable level of challenge to the process. Collecting antiques such as antique furniture and antique home décor is an endeavor that should be fun, exciting and enjoyable.

Most collectors actually rarely ever become frustrated when it comes to finding things for their antique collection, because they have fun hunting for treasure, and enjoy the chase involved in finding the antiques that they seek. As long as you are being smart about your antiquing, there is nothing wrong with being a little bit of a pack rat, if it means bringing yourself pleasure and lifting your mood.

Photo Credits: rocket ship

Originally posted 2009-05-27 08:02:30. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Antiques -> Decorative Arts -> Clocks

Many people have a fondness for timepieces of all varieties, but collectible mantel clocks hold a special place in many collectors’ hearts Perhaps because mantel clocks were placed on mantels above fireplaces years ago, in the eras before electricity and digital clocks with their beeping and flashing. Something about a key wound clock that keeps time manually has a a certain charm. And fireplaces give the sense of coziness and warmth and bring to mind easy hours in front of a fire.

Around the year 1500, Peter Henlein invented a spring operated clock in Nuremburg, Germany. Now every household could have an accurate timepiece, with the first mantel clocks created in France in the middle of the 18th century. The mantel clock itself became very popular right away in France, because most large French manors had more than one fireplace, and the mantle was simply a handy place to place a clock, as the set up of most rooms focused inhabitants attention on the fireplace area, and it was a common place to gather for warmth. Collectible mantel clocks following this ear usually came with a pair of ornaments designed to go on each side of the clock that matched its deign in some way, until this went out of vogue in the 20th century.

While collectible mantel clocks are generally placed on a mantle, they also look nice on end tables, study desks, counter tops and any surface that needs an accessory. Some popular styles of mantel clocks basically define their shapes rather than their construction. Tambour style clocks are drum shaped with a wide base, arch style clothes are arched at the top with a narrow base, carriage and bracketed clocks are different only in that the carriage cocks generally have a handle on top. Nautical mantel clocks bear nautical designs and the designs on the face give it a nautical appearance.

Another type of collectible mantel clocks that are very popular are anniversary clocks. Typically glass and dome-shaped, the clock can run for one year without winding or changing the battery. Collectible mantel clocks can either be battery-operated or key wound. Many who prefer mantel clocks to other types of clocks prefer the key wound variety because it brings to mind an earlier more simple time. Key wound clocks typically have 3 holes in the dial which makes them easy to distinguish from quartz battery operated clocks.

Collectible mantel clocks can add charm to your room and are available in a variety of shapes, styles and finishes. You can find these clocks in a variety of places, though the more unique collectible and antique mantel clocks can probably be found in stores that specialize in clocks, or on eBay where you can look at browse from sellers all over the world. Be sure to establish that the clock is in good working order before you buy it, and find the age of the clock if you can to determine whether or not it might be an antique.

Originally posted 2008-11-04 05:00:28. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Antiques -> Architectural and Garden -> Doors

Antique doors have much to offer the private collector and many of these, depending on the materials used, and the designer may actually be worth quite a lot of money. Whether you are looking for a collectible that you can put to good use right in your own home, or you are seeking an antique door to complete a period house, there are many different types of doors available.

Pocket Doors

These were very popular in the Victorian era and were commonly used to separate parlors and dining areas from the rest of the house. Typically made of wood and highly ornate, they would slip into a recess in the wall when they were not in use. If you do plan to purchase pocket antique doors to use in your home, be advised you will need to have a niche carved out of your wall and a track system installed in order for it to work properly.

Stained Glass Window Doors

During the arts and crafts period and particularly several hundred years before that era took place, having stained glass windows in doors was incredibly popular. The antique doors you can find today range from simple and elegant to incredibly ornate. The stained glass may even be worth a small fortune in its own right. These doors can add value to any home and they are a beautiful example of craftsmanship.

Carved Doors

The Victorian era and the preceding eras brought us ornate carved wooden antique doors and many of these are still available today. Typically quite large and heavy, some range over twelve feet high, depending on the house where they were installed. These are a beautiful collectible and many are very valuable, especially the ones that are more ornate.

Bar Doors

Believe it or not bar doors, or saloon doors as they were commonly called are actually very popular. These swinging antique doors may have once graced a saloon from the 1800’s when the west was wild. These are a fun collectible, and very useful if you want to block your kitchen off from the rent of the house, but don’t want to go to the trouble of installing a brand new door system.

French Doors

A common fixture in homes in the South and throughout Europe, French doors are a great collectible to have if you are interested in antique doors. Many will still have their original glass panes still intact. These are a great solution for homes where the owner needs to block off a room from the rest of the house without breaking up the visual flow. Commonly, these are used in bedrooms, dens and offices.

These are just a few examples of the types of antique doors you can find today. Head on over to a second hand store, a garage sale or you can go online to find some great deals and rare finds. You never know what you may come across and you may end up with a very valuable antique door.

Originally posted 2008-09-27 05:29:40. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Antiques -> Decorative Arts -> Clocks-

Antique mantle clocks are a wonderful investment that not only beautify your home, but also provide you with a great conversation piece. Many antique mantle clocks are true works of art and with careful shopping, you may even end up with one that used to grace the palace of a royal, or that one stood on the mantle of someone famous. If you are looking for a great new antique, a mantle clock is a wonderful choice.

Here’s what you need to know before you go shopping.

1. What is the country of origin?

This is particularly important for many different reasons. First, it is always nice to know where an antique came from and if you can find one that was constructed in a foreign country, the value may be increased. Second, this is an important part of owning a conversation piece. You’ll need to be able to pass along a little bit of the history of the mantle clock. If it’s origination is not clear, there are some clues that can help you, such as the types of figures that were used, scenes that are depicted, or even the materials that the mantle clock is made out of.

2. Does the clock still work?

This is also very important since finding a good clock maker is very hard these days. Ask the seller to prove that the mantle clock is operational before you actually decide to purchase it. This may be difficult online, but a small video will usually provide you with the proof you need to make a good decision. Otherwise, you may need to take the seller’s word for it. If this is the case, make sure they have good feedback. A beautiful clock that doesn’t work may be a beautiful showpiece, but it’s only really valuable if it is still running.

3. How is the clock powered?

Ideally, you should look for a mantle clock that has a wind-up mechanism. Most antique clocks will, and this is also a great way to find out just how old the piece is. Modern mantle clocks are typically battery powered, so if you are looking for an older model, stick with the ones that are wind-up. You won’t have to worry about finding the right battery and there is just something special about a wind-up clock.

4. What is the overall condition?

Again, due to the fact that finding clock makers is so difficult, it is important to find a mantle clock that is in very good to near perfect condition. While some small flaws can add to the conversational value, if the clock is damaged, it will reduce the overall value of the piece. Try to find a mantle clock that is at least in good condition overall.

Shopping for antique mantle clocks is a very fun pastime, and these also make great collectibles. Whether or not you actually have a mantle to put them on, these clocks can brighten up any home and provide hours of enjoyment.

Originally posted 2008-08-27 14:00:17. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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• Clocks Decorative Arts Antiques

Are you wondering why you might want to go into collecting antique teddy bears? It really is a matter of taste when it comes to collecting antique teddy bears. It is quite possible for you to collect these bears on a wide variety of different levels. You can collect all kinds of different antique teddy bears including limited edition types, vintage types, artistic types, themed bears, bears that hail from a specific region and miniature antique teddy bears as well.

Some collectors of antique teddy bears come online looking for antique teddy bears because of the unique variety that is available. Make sure that you are both collecting with your heart and being intelligent about it at the same time. Make sure that you are only buying authentic antique teddy bears, for example. Here are some ways that you can tell how old antique teddy bears are, or what their origins are.

Label – The label for antique teddy bears is not going to lie. Even if a lot of the label has been worn away, you can still compare the label with identification books to identify the antique teddy bear that you have collected.

Hump - Unlike today’s modern teddies, antique teddy bears were created in a way that was meant to resemble true bears, and so they had a muscled hump in between their shoulders. Larger humps generally indicate that you have an older bear on your hands.

Limbs - Early antique teddy bears are going to be capable of being distinguished based on their long, curved and thin arms. Their legs were typically featuring narrow ankles with large feet at the ends, and the hips were usually quite wide as well.

Nose - Long noses tend to indicate earlier antique teddy bears. The long nose was designed to mimic the appearance of a real bear.

Eyes and Footpads – A teddy bear that has synthetic footpads and plastic eyes is generally going to date back to around the 1950s or the 1960s. Early bear makers made use of boot buttons or of glass eyes, and the foot pads were made out of either felt or velvet.

Joints – Many of the teddy bears originated from 1905 have joints that are made from wooden disks, allowing their limbs to be adjusted. The limbs from even earlier teddy bears could be made from metal rods, but those rods were generally only seen in lower quality bears. Upper end bears would have arm joints, leg joints and head joints, while many other antique teddy bears skipped out on the head joint.

Fabric – Mohair was the chosen fabric for most antique teddy bears because it was soft as well as durable and made out of goat hair to feel just like real hair. Antique teddy bears from after the 1930s may have silk or plush fabric instead, and later teddy bears were made from synthetic materials.

Photo Credits: Paul Keleher

• Ceramic Piggy Banks Antiques -> Decorative Arts -> Ceramics, Porcelain Ceramic piggy banks have an interesting history. Why pigs, exactly, and not bank shapes or a tiny safe? Apparently, we use pigs because of language, and a simple mistake. The word “pygg” was an old English word for an orange clay commonly used......
• Victorian Furniture Dealers -> Periods-Styles -> Victorian Though its peak popularity was during the late 19th century in America, Victorian furniture still holds quite an appeal for many people today. This style of furniture is distinguishable by the time period in which it was created and the methods that were used. The......
• Antique Door Locks Antiques -> Architectural & Garden -> Doors The look of antique furniture and hardware can lend such old-fashioned charm to a room, so it's no wonder than an antique door lock is a popular item that can look great in all but the most modern décor. Someone searching for this......
• The Benefits of Antiques Insurance If you have a collection of antiques, collectibles or fine art, then you may find yourself wondering about insurance coverage, and how antiques insurance can possibly be used to cover your needs and ensure that your cherished items are protected. In general, antiques insurance is tricky because placing a value......
• Antique Doors Antiques -> Architectural and Garden -> Doors Antique doors have much to offer the private collector and many of these, depending on the materials used, and the designer may actually be worth quite a lot of money. Whether you are looking for a collectible that you can put to good......

• Antique Vintage Plastic Collectibles There seems to be a market these days for every type of vintage collectibles under the sun, and Bakelite and antique plastic jewelry vintage collectibles are certainly no exception. These vintage jewelry collectibles include antique and vintage jewelry made from Bakelite as well as from vintage types of plastic include......
• Explore the World of Collectible Teddy Bears There are a number of famous collectible teddy bears that you can buy or sell and build a collection out of. Here are some of the collectible teddy bears that you may want to consider looking for and perhaps adding to your collection of unique bears from all eras. -......
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• Japanese Art Collectibles -> Cultures-Ethnicities -> Asian Japanese art is a type of art that has a very distinctive look. If a painting, a vase, a sculpture or some other type of art is Japanese, particularly if it’s antique art, it usually only takes a quick look for you to recognize the......

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Antiques -> Periods and Styles -> Art Deco

Art deco furniture antiques are highly sought after and are often very unique pieces. If you love this time period, or if you are simply looking for furniture that transcends the every day mundane design, art deco furniture is the perfect choice. Many of these pieces are actually quite valuable, which is a testimony to the craftsmanship and design that went into creating them. Many of the techniques that were used to create these furniture pieces are no longer used, but it only takes one look at a piece of true art deco furniture to know that a lot of love and care went into its construction.

If you are not familiar with the art deco period, it was a time when a lot of black lacquer, mirroring and brass finishes were brought in. These pieces are usually a study in contrasts, with light colored upholstery being used with darker pieces of wood. The designs were very modern for the times and you’ll usually find pieces with more defined edges or rounded edges, fan shapes and arches. Let’s take a look at some of the best art deco furniture that is also highly collectible.

1. Club Chairs

One of the hottest types of art deco furniture is a club chair. These are usually made of leather and will be rounded in appearance. They are typically black in color, although you can find the occasional red or brown piece. This art deco furniture is very comfortable and the chairs will usually come with a matching ottoman. The rise of popularity in club chairs was spurred in part by prohibition and the introduction of many new nightclubs and speakeasies. These chairs were considered to be the ultimate in luxury for many years and the ones that are still available today have not lost any of that original charm.

2. Armoires

These are beautiful pieces that are usually quite large and very heavy. Typically made of solid hardwood, most art deco furniture pieces that were produced during this time feature a lighter wood inlaid with a darker wood. Burlwood was a very popular type of hardwood that was used during this time period and the finish on these pieces is high gloss. They are very functional and were typically custom ordered by the wealthy during this time period.

3. Entertainment Cabinets

As radios became popular forms of entertainment, households needed cabinets to store them. Victrolas and record players were also in use and needed housing as well. This led to the rise of the first entertainment centers and in art deco furniture, these are usually the most ornate. They will feature intricate inlays, contrasts between light and dark wood and usually contained inventive doors and handles. These are tremendously valuable pieces and can go for high prices at auction.

These are just a few examples of the types of art deco furniture that can still be found today. You can also find bedroom sets, couches, mirrors and many other great pieces that can enhance any home.

Originally posted 2008-09-04 14:00:43. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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• Secretary Desk Dealers -> Furniture -> Desks When you're shopping for antique desks, a secretary desk is just one of the many different styles of furniture you'll find. There are standard desks, of course, elaborate (and now amazingly expensive) Wooten desks, old rolltop desks and variations on all of those. How......
• Antique Chairs Antiques -> Furniture -> Chairs In the market for a collectible that will not only be useful but also beautify your home? Antique chairs are the perfect solution. These are a very popular type of collectible and no matter what type of furniture you’re interested in, chances are you’ll be......
• Silk Screen Dealers -> Antiques -> Asian For anyone who enjoys Asian art, an antique silk screen can make a gorgeous addition to your home. Paintings and even silkscreened prints with an Asian theme can give a room a distinct atmosphere, but there’s nothing quite like a paneled screen that can be......

• Japanese Art Collectibles -> Cultures-Ethnicities -> Asian Japanese art is a type of art that has a very distinctive look. If a painting, a vase, a sculpture or some other type of art is Japanese, particularly if it’s antique art, it usually only takes a quick look for you to recognize the......
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• Coca Cola Collectibles Collectibles -> Advertising -> Soda-> Coca-Cola By far, one of the most endearing collectibles that has become popular over the past few decades are Coca Cola collectibles. This company has done a great job of coming up with many ways to create valuable and memorable products that are highly sought......
• Collector Plates Memorabilia -> Movie Memorabilia -> Collector Plates One of the most common types of memorabilia for the entertainment world are collector plates. These decorative items adorn the homes of many, but they may not be aware of just how valuable these small collectibles are. While there are plenty of collector......
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Antiques -> Furniture -> Benches, Stools: 1800-1899, 1900-1950, Post 1950

One great way to add function and beauty to any home is by purchasing a unique antique bench. There are many different types of collectible benches that can be found in antique stores around the world, but it is important to know what you’re looking for so that you can certain you are getting a true antique and not just a run of the mill bench. Here’s what you need to watch out for.

1. Is there a story with the bench?
Most small town antique stores will be staffed with knowledgeable people that know the history of the items that the sell. You can also find this with online antique auctions, especially if you are dealing with the actual owner of the bench. The more history there is behind the item, the greater your chances are of discovering a great antique.

2. Are there any maker’s marks or signatures on the piece?
Furniture artisans would typically sign their pieces and this is a true mark of an original and collectible bench. Always search the underside and underneath the arms to see if you can find any seal or sort of mark that was left behind by the furniture maker. Not finding one doesn’t necessarily mean that you are not dealing with an antique, but it could mean that the antique bench may not be that valuable.

3. Look at the style of the piece?
Is it too perfect? Is it too modern looking? You can tell a lot about an antique bench just by looking at it. If it is too perfect, that could be a sign that it is a reproduction. Even the best handmade antique benches will have some flaw since they are made by real people and by hand. True perfection may be a sign that the bench was made by machine or constructed recently.

The same is true of the style of the bench. If it is not consistent with the era that the seller is claiming, then you have a major warning sign that it may not be an actual antique. It’s not very difficult to take a new bench and distress its finish to make it look older than it actually is, but the style is always a dead giveaway. It’s best to read through old furniture books to get an idea of the time periods and styles.

4. When in doubt get an appraisal.
If the seller is asking a lot of money for an antique bench, your best bet is to get it appraised. This will help you determine the authenticity with a lot greater accuracy. If the asking price is relatively low, you should be able to skip this step, especially if you truly like the antique bench and are more interested in it for aesthetics than as a collectible.

Remember, when buying antique benches it is best to do all that you can to make sure that they are authentic. Otherwise, you can end up with a very nice bench that really isn’t worth all that much.

Originally posted 2008-08-13 05:00:17. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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• Antique Lamps Antiques -> Decorative Arts -> Lamps There is a huge market right now for collectible antique lamps and these functional decorative collectibles can brighten any home. If you’re looking for a collectible that is not only beautiful but also functional, antique lamps are the perfect answer. There are literally hundreds......
• Art Deco Furniture Antiques -> Periods and Styles -> Art Deco Art deco furniture antiques are highly sought after and are often very unique pieces. If you love this time period, or if you are simply looking for furniture that transcends the every day mundane design, art deco furniture is the perfect choice.......

• Collectible Bottles Collectibles -> Bottles and Insulators -> Bottles-> Antique (Pre-1930) One of the most unique forms of collectibles are bottles and you’d be surprised at just how many you can find. Ranging from antiques that were produced in the 1900’s, to ones that are just rolling off the assembly line right......
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• Types of Sports Memorabilia Items to Buy There are a number of different forms that sports memorabilia items can take, including both modern memorabilia and vintage memorabilia. Some of the sports memorabilia items that you can purchase and add to your collection include: - Autographed sports memorabilia items, including balls, gloves, bats, cards and anything else that......
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• Law Enforcement Badges and Memorabilia Different people have different interests when it comes to collecting memorabilia and other collectibles. For example, some people collect law enforcement badges and other law enforcement memorabilia. The reasons for such a collection may stem from having a history working with law enforcement or possibly having an ancestor that was......

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Dealers -> Antiques -> Decorative-Arts

Years ago, before the introduction of plastics and resins, even animals’ indoor homes like antique bird cages were considered beautiful pieces of furniture. Of course, some were plain and utilitarian, but many more were actually created in the popular furniture styles of the times. Bird cages were designed to fit into the home’s aesthetic and enhance a room rather than stick out because they were different, or worse, be an eyesore.

Antique bird cages can be quite valuable, depending on the material, the style and the age. An important thing to remember about these cages is that years ago, materials were used that we know aren’t exactly healthy for pets today. Some cages may contain lead-based materials or paint that isn’t healthy for anyone, let alone the occupant of the cage. If you’re looking for a cage that’s not just for decoration, but will be home for your feathered friend, choose a modern cage. You can find bird cages today in many different styles and designs. Just look beyond your local pet shop or pet superstore to the more niche stores and you can find bird cages just as ornate as those from 100 years ago.

If you’re looking at antique bird cages as purely decorative and collectible items, then you can worry much less about the materials and concentrate on the design, instead. You can pay hundreds of dollars for some cages, so it pays to know what you’re looking for and how much you’re willing to spend before you start.

You can be eclectic and collect several different antique bird cages, representing many different styles and cultures, or you can focus on a particular country of origin, or furniture style. You might want to buy only those bird cages that look Georgian or Victorian, with ornate designs and scrolls popular in the furniture of the time. Or you might want only very exotic Tunisian-style bird cages with their recognizable shape and curvy wire design. Wooden bird cages that look like large mansions, or small ones with ornate wire and beadwork—it’s your choice, and you have lots of variety to choose from, especially if you search through online auctions.

Unfortunately, many auctions will say little other than “old bird cage” or “wooden bird cage, looks antique.” If antique bird cages don’t bear a manufacturer’s name, artist’s name or date, it can be difficult to tell how old they are, what materials were used, and even where they came from. Some styles are pretty obvious, as with most Asian bird cages, but other times it can be very difficult to tell a reproduction bird cage from an actual antique. And sometimes the country of origin is just a best guess depending on the style and materials.

Antique bird cages can be stunning pieces of art as well as interesting conversation pieces. In the end, you’ll want to purchase them for their beauty and how much they interest you, rather than their age or whether they’re made of wood or bronze.

Originally posted 2008-12-02 05:00:40. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

• Antique Bench Antiques -> Furniture -> Benches, Stools: 1800-1899, 1900-1950, Post 1950 One great way to add function and beauty to any home is by purchasing a unique antique bench. There are many different types of collectible benches that can be found in antique stores around the world, but it is important......
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• Antique Dolls Antiques -> Decorative Arts -> Figurines One of the most popular forms of antique collectibles are antique dolls and there are some that can bring in an astonishing amount of money. Whether you have an old collection of vintage dolls, or you are trying to find one to complete your......
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