How to Read an Auction Catalogue Entry
Auction catalogues compress attribution, date, materials, dimensions, provenance and condition into a small space. Every qualifier matters. Separate factua.
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Collecting & Valuation
21 published guides on repair, care and the stories behind well-made things.
Buying an Antique Mirror: Glass, Frame and Safety
An antique mirror combines reflective plate, backing, frame and hanging system. See what to verify and document before buying.
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Why Accurate Dimensions Matter When Buying Antiques
Dimensions affect fit, function, transport and sometimes identification. See what to verify and document before buying.
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Buying Antique Upholstered Furniture Safely
Upholstered furniture may conceal its frame, old repairs, pests and multiple campaigns of fabric and stuffing. A beautiful cover is not a condition report.
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Buying an Antique Rug: Condition and Authenticity
Age, origin, structure, dyes, wear and repair all affect an antique rug. See what to verify and document before buying.
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How to Buy Antiques Across Borders Responsibly
Cross-border purchases can involve export licences, cultural-property rules, wildlife-material controls, tax and import documentation. Requirements depend.
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What a Good Antique Dealer Invoice Should Include
A detailed invoice protects buyer and seller and becomes an important provenance document. See what to verify and document before buying.
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How to Compare a Pair of Antique Objects
A true pair was conceived or made together, but old objects often acquire partners later. Comparison should cover construction and history as well as outwa.
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How to Check Provenance Without Overclaiming
Provenance is the documented chain of ownership, not a persuasive family story by itself. See what to verify and document before buying.
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