Collecting 101

An informative collection of articles and columns curated to enhance your collecting experience. Learn how to effectively run an antiques business from Wayne Jordan, discover proper care and preservation of your antiques, take a master class in antique appraising from the experts at the Asheford Institute of Antiques, and much more. Class is now in session.

Appraisals | Book Reviews | Business of Antiques | Care and Preservation

Alva Vanderbilt at her official opening of the chateau in March 1883, in her costume of a "Venetian Renaissance Lady." The photographer apparently added the birds in later, for whatever reason.

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Alva Vanderbilt's extravagant costume party rocked the world of New York's upper crust and socially elite.

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Life is good when covert swims under the cover of night keep the Dog Days of Summer at bay.

"Mermaids at Brighton" swim behind their bathing machines in this engraving by William Heath, circa 1829.

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Beachside etiquette once soaked in virtue, especially for women.

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They're mostly all gone now, those quirky roadside attractions that captured the imagination of photographer John Margolies. But if you look hard enough, and let your memory squint long enough into the fading sun, well, they just might be down the road a piece.

Wilt Chamberlain and Willie Shoemaker, Los Angeles, 1987, by Annie Leibovitz.

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No matter how different we may seem, the need to connect remains universal. And in so doing, we discover our similarities. And our humanity.

Graphic designer Milton Glaser in his New York City studio in 2014.

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Renowned New York graphic designer Milton Glaser embraced the world around him and left us with a message of love -- and Dylan's psychedelic hair. An artist remembered.

Costume Jewelry

Identifying unmarked pieces is one of the biggest mysteries costume jewelry collectors face. With a little know-how you'll become a regular Sherlock Holmes. Start your jewelry detective journey here.

Mark Bellomo, 7, with his Star Wars Millennium Falcon on Christmas Day, 1978.

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Who knows the influence of a moment in time, one as fleeting as a snowflake and just as magical? Take Mark Bellomo. In 1978, he received a Star Wars Millennium Falcon as a Christmas present. A gift of unfathomable joy. Maybe it's no wonder Bellomo is now one of the world's leading toy experts.

Daisy and Drape pattern carnival glass vase, H. Northwood Co.

Collectibles

Keep your glass and ceramic antiques looking great with these easy and simple tips from the pros.

Collecting 101

Susan Mullikin, one of Antique Trader's 'Ask the Experts,' shares her passion for antique clothing

Maintain the original finish of furniture whenever possible, preserving the historical value of the piece.

Care and Preservation

Here's some easy advice on how to keep your cherished furnishings looking good for years to come.

Collecting 101

Ornate Aztec hammered copper serving plate/wall hanging dates from the 1940s-1960s.

Featuring 5,000 dealers, Brimfield Antique Flea Markets is believed to be the most popular and largest such event in the U.S.

Collectibles

Uncertainty rules Antiques and Collectibles market as traditional business model shudders under weight of coronavirus cancellations.

Time magazine's July 25, 1969, commemorative issue of the moon landing.

Business of Antiques

The 50th anniversary of the moon landing, mid-century modern and vintage clothing are among the most popular areas for young and old buyers alike according to the Antique & Decorative Arts annual survey from the Asheford Institute of Antiques.