article thumbnail

What Does An Appraiser Do, Anyway?

Penrose Appraisals

A generalist appraiser has to value everting from coffee makers to oriental rugs to Russian teacups to antique spinning wheels. Identification. It may require research, as when faced with unknown maker's marks on the bottom of a piece of pottery. So, how do they do that? It may not be immediately obvious what the object is.

article thumbnail

The Beauty of Botanical Illustration: Capturing the Flora of the Natural World

Invaluable

Botanical illustrations offer a unique combination of scientific study and artistic allure. Featuring careful investigation and meticulous renderings of all the frills and folds of various flora, botanical illustration has served as a practical guide, a source of education, and a means of visual delight for centuries.

article thumbnail

Native American Jewelry

BHR Appraisal Services

Identification can sometimes be a challenge, however. Also, be aware that often times a piece may not be marked "sterling" even though it is (Native American makers are, I believe, exempt from US Federal assay marking requirements). These include the maker, the level of craftsmanship, the amount of silver used, condition, and age.

Jewelry 52
article thumbnail

Don't overlook coin silver

BHR Appraisal Services

typically, the maker's name would be stamped and occasionally the phrase,"pure coin". In many cases, there is only a single symbol which makes identification of the maker challenging. These are always worth checking since some makers can bring considerable sums. Marking was sporadic.

article thumbnail

Exploring the Timeless Beauty: Appraising California Impressionism

JSK Fine Art Appraisals

Emerging in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, artists like William Wendt, Guy Rose, and Anna Hills were at the forefront, capturing the essence of California’s diverse and picturesque scenery. Artists ventured outdoors to paint en plein air, capturing the changing effects of light and atmosphere directly onto their canvases.

article thumbnail

How to Distinguish Cut Glass from Molded Glass

WorthPoint

A glass blower created a blank (an undecorated piece of glassware), and an artist adept in pattern design would then come up with a template for a glass cutter to follow. You can also look for marks on both these types of glass to help with identification, as some companies specialized in cut glass while others were known for pressed glass.

Glass 52
article thumbnail

Evaluating Your Collection

Penrose Appraisals

The proper identification of materials sometimes requires testing, which may require the assistance of an expert. An object can be made of the finest materials, have the most sublime color, and feature just the right amount of ornamentation, but if it is not executed by a skilled maker, it will not be considered among the best.