Nov 8, 2002 By Charles Mather 3 min read

Q. Can you enlighten me about Art Deco bronze figures? – Cal, Chicago, Ill. A. Figures in bronze and a combination of bronze and ivory were mass-produced in the beginning of the 20th century. The main centers of production were France, Germany and Austria. Many of the finest designers included Ferdinand Preiss and Demetre Chiparus among others. The most common subject for the artists were women in athletic poses. Dancers as well as poised, graceful women with cigarettes were also popular. Many were created in erotic poses and these are in demand with Art Deco collectors. Nay faces were made of ivory. Condition is important as the ivory had a tendency to dry out as it aged. The bases were often of green onyx. Value guide: Art Deco figure on green onyx base, $5,000.

Q. Would a few old trunks interest anyone? – Kay, New Bedford, Mass.

A. These portable containers were used for transporting or storing personal belongings. They have been made since the 16th century and came in many styles and sizes. When the immigrants landed in this country, they also brought a variety of trunks. More trunks entered when the westward movement of the population took place. Those with dome tops were made to prevent water from accumulating on top, and to prevent stacking. The value of these pieces is determined by the condition and age plus the types of hinges used as well as the locks. Many are used as conversation pieces with a piece of glass on top turning the trunk into a coffee table. Value guide: rectangular trunk, wooden, flat top, 19th century, $400.

Q. Can you list prices on vintage comic books? – Lou, Cambridge, Md.

A. Comic books have reached prices that are no laughing matter. Prices listed are for copies in fine or mint condition. Early issues of a series are being snatched up by advanced collectors at ever-higher prices. Here are some current values: Action DC Comics No. 23, $6,000; Action DC Comics No. 15, Superman in Kidtown, $4,200; Adventure, DC Comics, No. 40, first appearance of Sandman, $35,000; All-American DC Comics, No. 79, Mutt and Jeff, $550; Amazing Fantasy, Marvel Comics, No. 15, introducing Spiderman, $13,800; Batman, DC Comics No. 4, Joker, $6,000; Incredible Hulk, Marvel Comics, No. 6, Metal Master, $2,000.Current Prices

– Jewelry, brooch, bird of paradise, Marcasite, 1920, $500.

– Snuff Box, shoe-shaped, mahogany, stud decorated, 1840, $450.

– Lefton, porcelain, wall plaque, kittens in hot air balloon, Japan, $35.

– Roseville Pottery, vase, bleeding heart, floral, 12 inches, 1938, $475.

– Bank, still, “Billiken on Throne,” cast iron, 1909, original, $75.

– Thimble, porcelain, American Belleek, hand-painted roses, $1,000.

Write to Charles Mather in care of the Herald-Standard at Crown Syndicate, Inc. P.O. Box 99126, Seattle, Wash. 98199 or call 206-285-1888.