Antiques
Q. Are collectors really buying architectural items? – Craig, Portsmouth, N.H. A. Just a few years ago most parts of early buildings were hauled off to the nearest dump. Times have really changed lately in this form of collectible. It is caused by the ever-growing interest in support for historical preservation. These architectural elements have fine detail. Doors, windows and fireplace mantels are just a few of the pieces collectors vie for. A tine copper building finial from the 19th century can sell for $2.000. Art Deco elevator doors of brass can fetch $3.000 for the pair. A cast iron gate with a tree design brings $ 1,500.
Q. Do ball point pens interest collectors? – Angel, Scottsbluff, Neb.
A. Most serious collectors add the earlier and more costly fine pens and pencils to their collections. The quill was replaced for writing in 1809 when the first metallic writing pen was patented. The first fountain pen was invented in 1830 but not made commercially until the 1880s. Leakage of the ink always seemed to be a problem in the earlier production. Waterman and Parker were pioneers in this category. Sell: tilling pens came on the scene in the early 1900s. A Waterman pen from 1915. No. 452, can return S$2,000 on today’s market. A Parker Duofold Sr. from 1930 is worth $750. A ballpoint pen by Christian Dior from 1985 brings $25.
Q. Can you discuss Coalport porcelain? – Ida, Penns Grove. N.J.
A. This quality English ware dates back to the 1790s. Early production featured tablewares and decorative pieces. After 1851 they became known for their vases done in the style of the French firm Sevres. Flower covered rococo items entered the firm’s inventory in the 1870s. The firm is still in production today in Stoke-On-Trent, England. A tip in dating early pieces is that they were unmarked. Later wares carried the company name in script. Many later flower-encrusted items are marked “Coalbrookdale.” Imari patterns were a favorite with this company. Value guide: covered vase with florals, $800.Current Prices
– Burmese, glass, miniature pitcher, waisted tankard type, $1,800.
– Record Album, Honey West, Anne Francis cover showing star, $200.
– Ivory, Japanese, reclining nude woman, doctors doll, 8 inch, $1,000.
– Painting, oil, Western, “Last Hill Before Sundown,” Stavrowsky, $18,000.
– Felix the Cat, child’s tea set, lustreware, service for 6, $1,000.
– Furniture, pie safe, cherry with punched tin panels, all original. $675.
– Silverplate, coffeepot, repousse trim, Reed and Barton, $150.
– Decanter, liquor, Rip Van Winkle, Old Fitzgerald, $40.
– Salt and Pepper Set, Fox and Goose, Ceramic Arts Studio, $ 175.
– R.S. Germany, porcelain cup and saucer, Art Deco lady decor, $ 150.
Write to Charles Mather in care of the Herald-Standard at Crown Syndicate Inc., P.O. Box 99126 Seattle, Wash. or call 206-285-1888.