ATDC reader Jayne needs help selling a collection:
ATDC,
I've recently returned to DC after years overseas, and have come to realize that my collections of teak furniture (similar to that pictured above), antique Afghan glass, and Africa art are just way too big for my small DC apartment. I would like to sell some of the pieces I've acquired, but don't know how to assess the value. There are lots of appraisers and auction houses in the area, but I'm hoping for a personal recommendation- I'd like this process to be as painless as possible.
Thanks! Jayne
(Note: Include a pic of your problem and your question gets posted first. Email questions and pics with QUESTIONS in subject line to: dc(at)apartmenttherapy(dot)com)
oh man, make sure to let us know when you do sell it so we can try and buy it! I love that kind of stuff!
view MFlick's profile
. They have a small consignment auction every Tuesday morning. You'll have to call and see if they want your stuff, but if it's any good, they probably would.
view furnituregirl's profile
Oops. Did something wrong with the tag. It's Weschler's, http://www.weschlers.com/
Sorry!
view furnituregirl's profile
I may be interested in some of the African art..
view kronik's profile
Try Hidden Treasure Appraisals. My contact there was Sarah McCullom 703-370-2887 or ssmccullom@hotmail.com. Also had a cell 703-370-3468
She does Antiques, Fine Art and Decorative art in NOVA and W, DC.
She does it in accordance of the American Society of Appraisers ASA and in conformity w/ the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice.
Her practice began in June 2004.
I met her at an event and held on to her information for my clients although I've not personally used her services.
I hope that helps.
Scott aka declutteryou.com
view DeClutterYou's profile
Unless the teak furniture is old, it is just teak furniture. Google is your friend here.
You need someone who is familiar with the type of material you have, and the average appraiser probably won't be.
I would look at the dealers at the major Tribal Arts sales - NY, Santa Fe, Philadelphia and LA? SF? have one each year. Then email some of the African arts dealers and ask for recommendation - if you think you truly have good old stuff. I wouldn't bother them for things worth a few hundred dollars.
I would also contact the major auction houses - Sotheby, Christie - who have specialist sales and therefore specialists on staff. They normally let you walk in? email in? photos and they give you a rough estimate.
view Taureg's profile
I recommend the Antiques Roadshow appraisers database:
http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/roadshow/appraisers/index.html
In addition to their regular contributors, the show always hires local specialists for filming. Good luck!
view gquaker's profile
I would visit the website of the Appraisers Association of America to find someone local.
www.appraisersassoc.org
I'm an appraiser in NY and am very familiar with the group. To be a member (I am not, so no plug for me here) you must be highly qualified, and many of the appraisers have appeared on Antiques Roadshow (although that really shouldn't matter). You can find a generalist or a specialist this way. One thing you should note, whomever you choose-they should charge per hour, and not by percentage of what they value your items for. Nor should they be a dealer-it's a conflict of interest. Good luck.
view fleababe's profile