The go-to source for expert antiques and collectibles information.
The go-to source for expert antiques and collectibles information.
Have you seen many of the gorgeous enamels that are getting harder and harder to find? Ralph and I received our first enamels as wedding gifts in the 1950s. As a result, we became curious about the artists and the simply beautiful, handmade techniques that were almost forgotten. Ironically, Cleveland (our hometown) was the epicenter of the enameling art world, so we were so fortunate to find incredible pieces right here.
Early and mid-20th century pinback message buttons attracted high prices in the auction of a recent single collection. The sale had advertising, political and sports buttons, including this celluloid advertising button with 24 Boston Red Sox players.
In a few months, gardeners will be grabbing shovels and digging in their spring gardens. Most will simply be unearthing worms and more dirt. One gardener in England uncovered something more — an ancient Roman marble slab dated to the second century AD.
Q: This is a plate I inherited from my grandmother. It has long fascinated me because of its unusual design. I know the marking indicates it’s old but I would like to know more about it and what it may be worth. The mark has “Melbourne” and “G. & W.” in the band, a potter at his wheel on a bar that says “1790,” and “Late Mayers.” A diamond shape mark with “Rd” in the middle is below. It’s also embossed “Gildea & Walker.”
Kovels Antiques, Inc., was founded by Ralph and Terry Kovel. Hailed as “the duke and duchess of the antiques world,” they have written more than 100 books and special reports about collecting. Their bylined column is the longest-running syndicated weekly column in the country, distributed to more than 150 newspapers. Their guides include the annual Kovels’ Antiques & Collectibles Price Guide, which has sold over 4 million copies since its first edition.
