Keeping up with the antiques market and what’s hot and what’s not will help you invest wisely and choose the most desirable items to collect. Trends come and go and prices rise and fall. Let's delve into some of the featured highlights for this period.
Chinoiserie
Chinoiserie has never really gone out of style and this year is no different. Influenced by the artistic style of traditional China and East Asia, Chinoiserie first came into favour during the late 17th Century and early 18th Century during a period of increased trade and world travel.
Chinoiserie was an extension of the Rococo period that came before it, exhibiting a similar ornate and highly decorative style. Heavy gilt mirrors weren’t out of place in this period and gold was a choice colour in the Chinoiserie palette. With black lacquered screens depicting asymmetrical, natural scenery crafted with gilt inlay and black lacquered vases with gold painted vignettes of an exotic and idyllic world, Chinoiserie was a style fit for royalty.
China and East Asia had a huge influence on life and culture in Europe and England. Everyone had a taste for the exotic. Tea became the height of fashion. Sitting down to take tea was a formal event requiring tea sets, tea caddies, tea chests, tea tables and beautiful ornate porcelain, so fine you could see right through it. Taking tea became a time-honoured tradition and its surviving accoutrements remain highly collectable to this day.
Much like the blue and white porcelain from this period. Known as Pinyin or Blue Flowers, this porcelain first came into popularity after the cobalt pigment was introduced to China from Persia in the 14th Century. It found its way to Europe and England in the late 17th Century in the form of ginger jars and other vessels used to transport spices and other goods. Blue and white porcelain from the Chinoiserie period is mainly Delftware or Delft pottery made in Holland.
Chinoiserie had an influence on architecture, landscaping, literature, theatre, music, design, fashion, textiles and furnishings, but today it is the decorative arts that collectors are most interested in. Smaller objects that add style and panache without taking up too much room is top of the list for collectors and Chinoiserie fits the bill.
Beware of fakes and reproductions as this is a heavily imitated style. Consult with an expert and read up on this period before placing your bids.
Finding Treasure in the Trash
It’s amazing what some people toss aside as junk. But if you look hard enough and don’t mind putting in a bit of work, you can restore old pieces to their original glory.
Upcycling is on trend right now, especially for those on tight budgets who want something collectable with character that’s also affordable. It’s a great way to invest in a piece of furniture for the home or office. If it can be restored, it shouldn’t be ignored! So don’t overlook those pieces that aren’t in perfect condition, especially if you’re looking for a practical item to match your decor.
Mid-Century Modern
Mid-Century Modern is on every collector’s mind this year as its popularity continues to thrive. While some may argue that Mid-Century Modern doesn’t qualify as a true antique, some of the older and more iconic pieces are definitely worth collecting.
Depending on which group you listen to, Mid-Century Modern is period of design, architecture and furniture that first made its mark in 1933 (or 1947) and remained in favour until 1965 (or 1957). Most of the more iconic pieces are from the 1950s and are still reproduced and imitated by furniture designers across the globe.
Hot on the heels of the Art Deco movement, Mid-Century Modern dropped the geometric patterns of industry and machine and adopted sleek lines, clean designs, organic shapes, vivid colours and bold patterns. These designs are seamless and appear to be crafted from one solid piece using materials like chrome, leather, wood, and plastic.
Take the classic Arne Jacobsen Egg Chair, for example, or the Ray Eames Plywood Chair, or the Harry Bertoia Side Chair made of chrome mesh, or the Eero Saarinen Pedestal chair and matching table. With a clean, modern esthetic that would fit into any decor, these pieces not only look good they’re also extremely comfortable and practical. A must-have for many antique enthusiasts.
Collectable Toys
When it comes to collecting toys, condition is everything. Collectors want these items in excellent condition, preferably unwrapped in their original packaging. Toys from the early sixties and seventies are worth keeping an eye on, including:
- Barbie dolls and Topper Dawn dolls
- Traditional Japanese dolls like Daruma, Ichimatsu and Kimekomi
- Comics, marbles, and toy cars
Cast iron toys from the forties, fifties and earlier, as well as robots and tin toys from this period are worth collecting. Let’s not forget those adorable Steiff & Mohair stuffed animals from the 1800s to 1930.
Online Antique Auctions
Wherever you decide to go antique hunting, one thing is for sure – you’ll have better luck online than retail. Online antiques is an ever-growing trend that will overtake bricks-and-mortar antique shops within the coming years. Online auctions allow you greater access to a wider selection from the comfort of your own home. Just make sure you’re familiar with the terms and agreements so you’re not on the hook for additional fees and import duties.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the world of antiques offers a rich tapestry of trends and treasures for enthusiasts to explore. From the timeless elegance of Chinoiserie to the allure of upcycled pieces and the iconic designs of Mid-Century Modern furniture, there's something for every collector. Collectible toys evoke nostalgia, while online auctions provide convenient access to a wide array of items. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a novice enthusiast, the hunt for unique and valuable pieces continues to delight and inspire. Happy hunting!