Genuine Antiques
I divided my efforts between two categories. On the theoretical front I bought antique collector's books and studied them earnestly, supplementing my reading with frequent visits to museums and intensive watching of good old Antiques Roadshow on British TV. And then was the second category - the antiques field research. I went to see antiques wherever they were sold: antique shops, auctions and open markets.
On one occasion I went into an antique shop
that was unfamiliar to me. It was quite a big place and after the usual exchange
of greetings with the owner, I started looking around. The owner was sitting
with a very a respectful looking person who seemed to be a close friend. Both men,
undoubtedly above sixty, were seated in comfortable armchairs on the right side
of the entrance door conversing at ease, in low voices.
I started strolling around. There were certainly some very fine pieces in the
shop, and although it was my payday, I was sure that I cannot afford them. I
reminded myself that I was on an educational expedition, and my aim was not
buying but learning. Near the desk, at which the owner would normally sit
and do his telephones, I saw a marvelous pair of
Shisa and Guardian
dogs. On the desk itself there were few books among which I was
thrilled to discover a relatively new acquaintance of mine:
Godden's Encyclopedia of British Pottery & Porcelain Marks. It was very comforting to
learn that I am using the same books as the experts. A big cardboard box was
placed nearby - it seemed to contain a variety of items. "Feel free to
look at the stuff" I heard the voice of the owner from across the room. "I only
got it this morning and haven't had time to see what's inside". My heart beat
strongly - I have never had a chance to watch the content of a raw pile before
the dealers sorted and priced it.
My eyes hunted a most delicate little charming white and blue
porcelain fruit bowl. I held
it in my hands and noticed that although the painted motif had an oriental
flavor to it, the making was definitely late 18th century English. The small
mark at the bottom of bowl left no room for a doubt. I handed the porcelain bowl over to the
owner. He examined it closely. "Yes. A pretty little thing" he said. "Late 19th
century Canton" and passed it to his friend. The respectful looking men turned it around
in his palms. "Oh, certainly David" he replied at last. "A typical 19th century
Canton". The owner returned the bowl to me while naming the price.
I was shocked - how can it be? Am I dreaming? The guy had the book with the
relevant mark on his desk. I felt extremely embarrassed. I didn't wish to
dispute his authority, yet I also didn't want to feel like a thief. "Are you...are
you sure about the price?" I finally managed to mutter. He gave me a sort of not
very pleasant look, the one you get when you try to argue about price when
it is out of place.
"If you are paying cash I can give you a 10 percents discount" he said. I heard the sound of wings while my salary has gone with the wind...
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Collectible Antiques