Entries Tagged 'Decorative Arts' ↓

Avon Collectibles

Collectibles -> Decorative Collectibles -> Decorative Collectible Brands-> Avon

Avon CollectiblesThe Avon Company has been a respected institution in the United States since 1886, and their line of decorative collectibles contain some of the most sought after pieces on record. The company first began producing Avon collectibles in the mid-1960’s and they were instantly a hit. The vast majority of Avon collectibles are containers that once held products, although you can now find plush and other forms that are all valuable.

If you come across an Avon collectible, there are a few ways to make sure that you are dealing with the real thing. First, the piece should have Avon’s mark on the bottom, and may also contain the date that the piece was made. Ideally, if it was intended to hold a product, this should all be there, but finding one of these pieces is rare indeed. If there is no longer product in the Avon collectible, it should be completely clean.

Most Avon collectibles came with a certificate of authenticity. The pieces that still have their original certificates are considered to be the most valuable, so start your search for these pieces first. While there are a few rare models on the market that do not have certificates, generally it is best to find one that does still have this authentication.

For the most part, Avon collectibles are priced in a range that allows most people the chance to get a few pieces. There are a few very rare pieces that will sell in the thousands, but generally, they will be priced anywhere from $50 to $500. The older pieces from the 1960’s will generally fetch more money than newer items, and there is always sentimental value to consider as well.

One of the best places to find rare Avon collectibles is online or at your local flea market. Keep an eye out for these brightly colored figurines, since you never know when you may come across a great value. Always make sure to inspect your piece thoroughly however before you buy it. A single crack can greatly diminish the overall value of a piece.

If you are dealing with an online seller of Avon collectibles, make sure that they include pictures from every angle so that you have a better idea of the overall condition. The pictures should be close enough so that you can see any surface imperfections. If they are not, you may want to ask the seller to provide better photographs so that you know exactly what you are buying.

Avon collectibles are a great way to introduce children into the world of collecting. Their bright colors, fanciful designs and overall lower price make them an ideal starter collection for just about anyone. Whether you are looking for a specific piece that you remember from childhood, or you are completely new to Avon collectibles, this is a fun collection that you can share with the entire family. Consider starting your own collection of Avon collectibles today and see how many great pieces you can find.

Originally posted 2008-08-25 05:00:52. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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  • Lladro CollectiblesLladro Collectibles Collectibles -> Decorative Collectibles -> Lladro-> Figurines When you look at the beauty and grace that is customary with Lladro collectibles, it’s hard to believe that the company originally specialized in jugs and basic kitchenware. It wasn’t until the mid 1950’s that the three original founders of the company, who......
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  • vietnamwarmemorialCollecting Vietnam War Memorabilia Finding collectibles that hail from a certain specific area is going to be an easy process if you know where to look and how to look. There are several different factors that are going to come into play when searching for Vietnam War Memorabilia and other types of memorabilia including......
  • coinvalueDetermining Rare Coin Values in Your Collection When you are deciding whether or not you would like to add a specific coin to your collection, one of the things that you are going to want to take into account is rare coin values. The rare coin values that you find will ultimately be determined by availability of......
  • sportautographTypes of Sporting Memorabilia If you are trying to get into sporting memorabilia and would like a good idea of what types of memorabilia are out there, keep reading. Here you are going to find a basic look at what types of sporting memorabilia are out there so that you can go about finding......
  • blog traffic exchangeBon Jovi Posters Memorabilia -> Music Memorabilia -> Rock, Pop-> Bon Jovi One of the biggest rock bands of the 1980’s is still popular today and as such, many people are still trying to find their posters. Whether you are a new fan of the group, or you remember a certain poster that......
  • blog traffic exchangeMantle Clocks 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......
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Japanese Art

Collectibles -> Cultures-Ethnicities -> Asian

Japanese Art

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 art’s origin. Just as every culture has its own specific properties, the artwork of Japan will always have certain traits in common, no matter what kind of media the artist used to express himself.

Some of the most popular pieces of antique Japanese art are, of course, the paintings. Scroll paintings are distinctively Asian, and come in many sizes and levels of detail. Authentic scroll paintings only dating back as far as the early 20th century cost as little as $200, but some Zen scroll paintings from that period that bear the artists name as well as the temple, and are in excellent condition, can be worth as much as a few thousand dollars.

Another popular type of antique Japanese art is porcelain. Early 20th century porcelain pieces are generally going to cost at least a few hundred dollars, provided they’re in good condition. Vases from the 19th century will generally cost at least that much, if not more. Japanese carvings like those on top of wooden treasure boxes can be worth thousands of dollars. Most likely, though, the exact year of manufacture isn’t known, and they’re more reasonably prices.

Japanese art is full of renderings of Buddha, so many antique pieces feature him in paintings, carvings, or stand-alone statues. These can be valuable, particularly if they’re carved of ivory or stone, and are more than 100 years old. Japanese decorative bronze work is a popular type of antique, too, as they often added detailed embellishments to things like bronze vases or chests.
Most Japanese artwork is easily recognized because of the brush strokes and the subject matter. Landscapes are popular, often featuring cherry blossoms and lots of trees. Wildlife is a popular subject in Japanese art, with cranes being a popular bird. And let’s not forget dragons. Dragons have an important place in Japanese mythology and culture, and are often depicted looking like serpents. Unlike the negative view much of the world holds against serpents, the Japanese thought serpents and dragons to be good luck, and very valuable.

When you’re shopping for antique Japanese art, if a piece you love is out of your price range, you can usually find reproductions of most anything for a more reasonable price. Nothing beats the authentic piece, though, so make sure that the seller is knowledgeable about the piece and Japanese art in general. Unfortunately with many pieces of art, especially paintings, the only way to determine if you’re getting a fair price is to have the item appraised. You might want a piece for its beauty, but be prepared to have it appraised eventually. Many sellers don’t even know the true value of the pieces they have up for auction, so look for similar items online and compare the prices.

Originally posted 2008-12-05 14:00:24. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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  • blog traffic exchangeMiniature Collectibles Collectibles -> Decorative Collectibles -> Miniatures When it comes to a delightful collectible that won’t take up a lot of space, miniature collectibles are the ideal answer. These tiny little works of art require a great deal of craftsmanship and many of them feature amazingly lifelike details. You can find......
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  • blog traffic exchangeArt 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.......
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Miniature Collectibles

Collectibles -> Decorative Collectibles -> Miniatures

When it comes to a delightful collectible that won’t take up a lot of space, miniature collectibles are the ideal answer. These tiny little works of art require a great deal of craftsmanship and many of them feature amazingly lifelike details. You can find thousands of different kinds of miniature collectibles and because they are so small, you can easily collect thousands of them and still have room to spare. Let’s take a look at the different kinds of miniature collectibles that are available.

1. Glass Collectibles

Glass miniature collectibles are becoming increasingly popular and the way that they are produced is simply astounding. A glass maker will typically blow each piece by hand, carefully shaping and reshaping until the piece is perfect. These glass miniature collectibles are very detailed and considering the amount of work that goes into them, they are still reasonably priced. Many people like to display their collections on top of mirrors for added visual appeal.

2. Crystal Miniature Collectibles

This is a new fad, sparked in a large part by the popularity of Swarovski crystal. You can find these very valuable items at auction, and a few stores around the world carry them as well. They are usually done in very minute detail and most of the subjects are either animals or somehow related to nature. You can occasionally find other styles but by far the most common are the ones that are small crystal animals. These are typically very expensive, but they are also highly collectible.

3. Resin Miniature Collectibles

Resin collectibles are ideal for homes that have small children or for those that have a tendency to drop things. These are incredibly durable and many consider resin to be the perfect material for miniature collectibles. It is easy to work with and easy to hand paint and the level of customization and detail on these works is usually quite high. These are perhaps the most reasonably priced miniature collectibles you can find and it’s always nice to know that they will be able to hold up to the rigors of everyday life in your home.

4. Porcelain Miniature Collectibles

These are an old favorite of many and once again, the craftsmanship that goes into these tiny masterpieces is what makes them so valuable. These are also hand painted, and they are not typically mass produced, so you should be able to find a valuable piece very easily. Typically, a manufacturer will issue a limited run for their porcelain miniature collectibles and they will only make 500 or a 1000 and that’s it. These can be worth several thousand dollars, depending on the subject and the company or designer that made them. Miniature collectibles offer collectors the option of being able to easily store their treasures and display them nearly anywhere. They are perfect for those living in small apartments or for those that have limited space but would still like to be able to collect and display decorative art around their homes.

Originally posted 2008-09-12 14:00:10. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Royal Doulton Figurines

Collectibles -> Decorative Collectibles -> Figurines

Royal Doulton FigurinesRoyal Doulton figurines are an incredibly popular collectible and once you see how intricate the designs are, it is easy to see why. These precious statues are manufactured by the Royal Doulton Company from England and there is quite a lot of history behind them. The company has survived through many World Wars and many of the figurines that were produced during those periods of upheaval are the most popular of all.

The first figurines produced by the company debuted between 1912 and 1913. The very first one ever made was in honor of Queen Mary and carries the number HN1. The HN refers to the designer, Harry Nixon, who handpainted these Royal Doulton figurines. The vast majority if these figurines will carry his initials and that is a great way to tell if you are dealing with an authentic piece.

Between the years of 1928 to 1954, the company developed a new system to provide collectors with more information about the Royal Doulton figurines they were collecting. A small crown and a number appeared on items manufactured during this time. The numbers could be added to the year 1927 to determine exactly when that figurine was made.

By far, the most collectible Royal Doulton figurines were the ones that were made prior to 1939. You can easily tell if you have one of these rare finds due to the fact that the word “potted” will appear on the bottom of the figurine. This refers to the process of making the figurines. In addition, it easy to tell which figurines were produced after 1920, since a small lion will appear on these items.

There are several different highly collectible Royal Doulton figurines that are available at this time. They include the Bunnykins line, which was made during World War 2. Only six figurine types were produced during that time period and although production resumed after the war, the Bunnykins line remained incredibly popular. Newer models are available today, but collectors seek the ones that were made before 1945.

You can also find special editions of Royal Doulton figurines that are also highly collectible. These include models that are after specific historical figures, such as Queen Mary, or after fairy tale characters, such as Cinderella. When it comes to deciding which pieces you should collect, you can go for these first, but at the end of the day, it should come down to your personal preference.

Most Royal Doulton figurines are quite valuable, so as long as you are certain they are authentic, you really can’t go wrong collecting them. They have expanded their line to include animals and many other different types of figurines that are incredibly popular. Look for the most collectible ones first, but don’t let the others pass you by. In a few years, they may also be just as rare as the ones made before 1950.

Royal Doulton figures are especially fun to collect with children and offer a great way to start a child on a life of antiquing.

Originally posted 2008-08-12 05:00:07. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Persian Rugs

Collectibles -> Linens-Fabric-and-Textiles -> Rugs

Persian Rugs

Iran is the country of origin of the Persian rug, and still the largest producer of carpets and rugs in the world today. In Iran, investors purchase Persian carpets the way some investors buy gold and diamonds; they know the value will only increase with time. Persia, now known as Iran, has been exporting its rugs since the 1500s, and has influence carpeting designs and styles through the years. A hand-woven, authentic Persian rug is almost always very valuable; the exception would be a rug that was heavily damaged, but sometimes even damaged rugs are surprisingly valuable.

A Persian rug, or a rug that attempts to look like one, is an easily recognizable item. The colors and the intricate design usually make it clear that it’s Iranian in origin. Though it might not be immediately obvious to the casual observer, Persian rugs differ depending on the tribe that created them, and the geographical area where they were produced. They’re often named according to the town in which they were woven, or they’re named after the tribe that created them. An expert can look at the way a rug is woven and tell who produced it, and where.

Older and antique Persian rugs are typically more valuable than new ones, but a new Persian rug can still cost thousands of dollars. Large rugs are naturally more expensive, but you can find some very small runners or area rugs that are more affordable. The design in these rugs can range from several shades of the same or similar colors in an abstract pattern to brightly colored scenes complete with people and animals.

Newer rugs will probably have very symmetrical and exact designs, but an older Persian rug that was hand woven in a village or by a nomadic people won’t be quite so perfect because the loom that was used was probably wooden and not completely precise. This only adds to the charm and value of the rug.

If you have the opportunity to examine the Persian rug in person, feel it. Does it feel dry and rough, or is it pleasing to the touch? Some wool that’s removed from butchered sheep finds it way into these rugs—usually discount rugs that seem far too inexpensive to be a real Persian rug. You’ll want to avoid these “dead wool” rugs because they won’t stand up to wear the way a quality wool rug will. In fact, good wool will develop a sheen after being used that collectors prize as the mark of an authentic, quality Persian rug.

You may wish to consult a Persian rug expert to have a look at your potential purchase. But barring that, consider the color combination and pattern or scene. If it blends together and you enjoy the appearance of it as artwork, then chances are you’ll be happy with your purchase. If you’re buying through an auction, ask the seller if there are patches or repair, and get his or her impression about whether the rug feels dry or smooth.

Originally posted 2008-12-04 05:00:21. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Thomas Kinkade

Collectables -> Collectibles -> Disneyana

 Thomas Kinkade Thomas Kinkade is a living, American artist whose work is so popular today that many people have no idea they even have Thomas Kinkade artwork in their homes in some form or another. There seems to be no middle ground when it comes his art. People either dismiss it as throwaway art, no more skillful than a paint by numbers, they revile it for the commercialism that has made it so popular, or they cherish the homespun and idyllic scenes, the soft, pastel colors, and the light glow inherent in the paintings.

Unlike any other artist in history, Thomas Kinkade has taken an active hand in marketing his creations to the world. He has sold prints of his artwork on television, through the QVC home shopping network. He’s even trademarked the phrases “Painter of Light” and “America’s most collected living artist.”

A Thomas Kinkade painting is recognizable by the subject matter. The images are distinctly American, with some of them even coming from his hometown. Nature is often depicted in gardens, running water like streams, street, stone cottages and other settings. His paintings are simple scenes with no hidden messages or subliminal symbolism, and much of mainstream America appreciates these images of home and country, while others criticize their simplicity and straightforward style, claiming its not true art.

Often, a Thomas Kinkade painting will contain images of his daughters, or their names. And the letter ‘n’ is often emphasized in tribute to his wife. Churches and other symbols of the Christian faith are often depicted in his paintings, as he’s a devout believer who says he wants to use his artwork to touch people of all faiths. These religious paintings have made Kinkade popular among the American religious community.

Thomas Kinkade has earned millions through his artwork, thanks to unashamed promotion of it. He’s often asked to help commemorate milestones like an anniversary at Disney, and he has helped the efforts of many non-profit organizations like The Salvation Army and The Make-A-Wish Foundation. While many criticize him for his commercialism, others argue that artwork that isn’t viewed and appreciated is pointless, and at least he’s brought art to the mainstream.

Because of his efforts to popularize his artwork, a Thomas Kinkade print is one of the most easily accessible pieces of art that exists today. Original paintings cost in the thousands, but prints are affordable, helping to make him commercially popular. They can be purchased online, in auctions like eBay, and in shops that specialize in artist prints.

If you’re looking for an original painting, buy it from a respected art dealer to prevent being sold a forgery. If the price is only a few hundred dollars, chances are it’s not a true Thomas Kinkade. Other items featuring his art range from things like calendars to collector tins, so if you’re a fan you can enjoy his art in just about any form you can imagine. You can also purchase a variety of items directly from the artist’s website.

Originally posted 2008-11-11 06:19:43. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Ganz Cottage Collectibles

Collectibles -> Decorative Collectibles -> Houses, Cottages

Out of all of the available decorative arts collectibles, Ganz Cottage collectibles rank near the top. They offer a huge variety of different types of collectibles and no matter what your interests are, chances are they will have something that will be perfect for your own private collection. If you are not familiar with this brand, here is a brief glimpse at just a few of the different types of Ganz Cottage collectibles you’ll be able to find.

1. Cottages

As the name would imply, the Ganz Cottage collectibles company makes little cottages. These are incredibly detailed small houses and there are numerous accessories that go along with it. Each year they release limited runs of certain designs and many collectors have built up entire towns in their homes over the years. Many people prefer to display them all year round, but there are also those that like to bring these out around Christmas time, especially to delight children.

2. Bears

Ganz Cottage collectibles are also known for their plush bears that they produce. While they are not as popular as some of the more well known brands in this niche, they do have quite a following and it is growing quickly. If you’re looking for that perfect gift, or you are looking for some new designs, these little bears are the perfect fit. Their new line of Agape Bears is gaining ground on the market and customers are enchanted by these cute little bears.

3. Porcelain Collectibles

In addition to their other arts, Ganz Cottage collectibles also makes porcelain figurines. Many of these can be integrated into cottage displays, or just put up on their own. Once again, these are incredibly popular and the market for these is growing steadily. There are plenty of limited editions that are produced each year to give collectors a chance to snap up a great deal.

4. Miniatures

For those with limited space, Ganz Cottage collectibles also produces miniatures. You can find tiny little bears that are perfect for gift add ons, as well as small villages and many other types of figurines. These may be small, but they are highly sought after and many people wait every year to get their hands on the newest designs.

5. Resin Figures

If you need a durable collectible that can stand up to the test of time, Ganz Cottage collectibles also produces resin figurines. These are much more sturdy than porcelain collectibles and are perfect for those with small children, or for those that need just a little more durability.

No matter what kind of decorative arts you’re interested in, chances are Ganz Cottage collectibles produces something that will fit your needs. You can find these great collectibles at gift stores around the country, but by far, the best place to get the widest selection is online. You can usually pick up some great deals, and you may even be able to find something that has been discontinued and that is already rising in value.

Originally posted 2008-09-19 14:00:13. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Precious Moments Collectibles

Collectibles -> Decorative Collectibles -> Precious Moments -> Figurines

Precious Moments CollectiblesWith their distinctive designs and inspirational quips, Precious Moments collectibles are one of the most sought after decorative arts. Originally designed in 1975 by Eugene Freedman, it wasn’t until the mid-1980’s that the company hit full stride. Since then, these cute little figurines have had quite an impact on collectors from around the world. These are very popular gift items and many people have built up quite an impressive collection just from receiving these gifts on special events.

Precious Moments collectibles typically depict small children, and they are known for their large eyes, small faces and tiny bodies. The figurines are made of porcelain and are typically sized at less than five inches total. There are numerous societies and clubs that collectors can join and out of all of the decorative collectibles that were made in the later part of the 20th century, these are undoubtedly the most popular.

Quite often, the designs reflect certain milestones or achievements in life. For example, there are Precious Moments collectibles for birthdays, graduations, weddings and other big events that occur throughout someone’s life. There are also many figurines dedicated to inspiring their owners, and these will typically contain a small message that is attached to the figurine via a small plaque.

The success of Precious Moments collectibles has spurred an entire industry dedicated to these tiny figures and you can find everything from cards, posters, billboards and many other designs that now carry their likenesses. They are also popular online and you can find thousands of places to share and collect images of these figurines.

The rarest Precious Moments collectibles are the ones that are known as “exclusives.” These will typically denote a certain culture. For example, the Japanese kimono line, as pictured above, is considered to be very collectible and many people will spend months trying to locate them.

The advent of online shopping and auction sites has led to the furthered expansion of the Precious Moments collectibles craze. You can find many rare figurines on these auction sites and it is quite easy to locate the new editions that are published every year. For those seeking the rarest of the rare Precious Moments collectibles, these auction sites provide access that is unparalleled.

When shopping for Precious Moments collectibles online, it is important to make sure that they come with a certificate of authenticity. Although these figures are usually easy to find, there are those that try to pass off counterfeit figurines. Make sure that the seller provides a picture of the certificate, as well as a picture of the bottom of the figurine so that you can identify the marks.

If you are looking for a great little collectible that is fun to give or receive, Precious Moments collectibles may be the ideal choice. They are perfect for children and adults alike and as their popularity continues to grow, older versions and the exclusive series will continue to grow in value. The next time you see a Precious Moments collectible you may just decide to give it a try.

Originally posted 2008-08-28 14:00:42. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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