Valuing your antiques

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Tuesday, November 25, 2014

Valuing antiques is not easy. But there are again quite a few pointers that will help you to ascertain a rough value of the antique. We have already seen some guidance for identifying whether an antique is original or fake. Once it is ascertained whether the item is a mere reproduction or an original classic you can then proceed with the valuation process.

The value of an antique depends on various different aspects that need to be taken into consideration such as its age, rarity and form, popularity, restoration and repairs etc. If there is a particular kind of item available in abundance, the valuation will again obviously change.

Generally any item that reaches its hundred year old mark enters into the category of antiques. However during the early 19th century there were quite a few people who had come up with mass produced furniture items that are available in plenty. So the valuation greatly is based on the rarity of the items as well.

Another important aspect that aids the valuation of an antique is the manufacture details which are in a number of cases evident on the piece itself. Artifacts often bear such stamps while paintings are signed by the artists in almost all of the cases.

The condition of the antique is pretty important as it has an impact on the value since the value varies according to the degree and quality of any repair and restoration work. An untouched antique in its purest form obviously has a greater value. However if an item is extremely rare then the minor restoration work or a few dents and bruises will not change the value of the antiques.

There are various printed and online guides available to help with the valuation of the antiques. The printed guides are usually more reliable but then the item should match the description perfectly for an accurate valuation. You can also seek help of the experts for accurate valuation. Since they are professionals they have a thorough knowledge about the antiques and consider all the intricate details including age, popularity, condition and provenance.

A wonderful example of an antiques is this late 17th century carved and polychromed limewood sculpture of a prancing lion.
This prancing blue lion with a golden mane sculpture stands on a crimson cushion, beneath the cushion we think the carving depicts the ocean waves, it may have some nautical significance. circa 1690.