If you ever watched Antiques Roadshow, you know that it can be rather challenging to identify antiques and their value. Sometimes we find things that look old and precious only to find out that they are relatively new and common. Regardless if you are doing house clearance or hunting for some deals at the local flea market, knowing how to recognize the value of an object might come in handy.
Today you can find various information resources that can help you identify the age and the value of particular pieces. From internet forums to Google Lens, finding information is just a few swipes away. However, in cases where you have to react quickly, you will have nothing more than common sense and a pair of eyes to determine the potential value. For this aim, you want to have a RADAR at hand. This acronym stands for Rarity, Aesthetics, Desirability, and Really good condition.
Rarity
There is one straightforward rule when it comes to antique valuations, the rarer the object, the greater its value. A specific thing can be rare because of the number of copies made or because only a few pieces remained over time. Assessing this usually requires extensive knowledge about the period or the manufacturer.
Aesthetics
Visit any museum, art gallery, or open books about art and design. You can easily see how certain objects have universal aesthetic appeal. This gives them additional artistic value and sets them apart from similar things made around the same time.
Desirability
Sometimes the things people considered to be dreadful, tasteless, or ineffectual during their time become very fashionable and noteworthy in the future. This significantly improves the desirability and the value of those objects. This characteristic can usually be associated with collector’s items, vintage fashion, etc.
Authenticity
Determining whether the object is original or not can make a difference between treasure and trash. Helpful clues for determining authenticity can be maker’s marks. These can be signatures, labels, tags, or imprints and are usually well hidden. Unfortunately, marks can be faked, which is one reason you always need to make additional analyses before determining the object’s authenticity.
Really good condition
When it comes to antique valuations, it is expected to see some sign of use on them. Depending on the object and its age, minor damages can be tolerated. However, they can also reduce its value significantly.
Identifying antiques and their value can be a complex and challenging task. People spend years learning about history, art, and valuable objects. At Manor House Clearance, we have a team of experts that are specialized in antique valuation. They can help you with identifying potentially precious items. For more details about how we might assist you, do not hesitate to contact us today.