Selling an estate is a big project. Often, there is a lot of clean up that needs to happen. Usually, there is a real estate transaction somewhere in the mix. Many times, there are valuable items that can’t be kept, but shouldn’t be thrown out. Almost always, there are things of value you don’t realize are valuable. There are curbside, haul-away dumpsters to rent, art to evaluate and sell, auction houses to contact, furniture to consign, and every tiny little detail that needs to be looked at, considered and decided upon. Whether you hire a professional estate seller to help you manage this large project, or tackle it by yourself, the proper order is important in keeping costs down, and maximizing the value of your estate.
Here is the punchline: before you throw away the first piece of ‘junk’, before you have anyone come clean anything, make sure you know what you have. This is done with the simple process you have probably heard of before. Sort the entire estate into three categories: Keep, trash, sell. This last one, selling, is where an estate sale professional can really help. Estate sellers will know trash from treasure, and they will know how to set you up to get the most value. They will know how to get your house cleared out. Then and only then should you worry about cleaning or throwing away anything. If you are going to go it alone and manage the estate liquidation process yourself, the same still applies. You will want to complete the sorting and clearing of the house before you spend money on cleaning crews.
Sometimes the house you are selling can be a real mess. This is especially true when there has been a protracted illness, or when mental health has played a part in the need for an estate sale. We’ve all heard hoarder stories, or had a hoarder in the family. Many families feel embarrassment and want to ‘get it cleaned up enough’ to begin having people come look. Many people feel overwhelmed by how much stuff there is, and don’t think they can possibly get through it all if they don’t throw a bunch of stuff away first. Resist the urge to purge. Get your estate seller involved right from the start. If you are running the sale yourself, this first contact with the house and all its ‘stuff’ is when you should begin your sort. Yes, you will sort a lot into the ‘trash’ pile, but it is so much better than throwing away good money, and then going back through and touching everything twice.
There is a lot more I could say about the estate sale process, (and I probably will in some future blogs!) but this is the main thing I would want my clients to know: bring in your estate seller first. Maybe even before you bring in your real estate agent, bring in the estate agent. The estate seller can help you figure out how long it will take to clear and prepare the property, they can perform the initial clean up, sort your items into the three primary groups, and help you achieve the best outcome from this difficult task.
]]>The introduction of high volume, mass production of glass bottles, containers and other glassware items by machinery began in the mid 1800’s. Of course, many pieces of glassware were hand blown then, as they are now, and using similar techniques. The most inexpensive glass fabricated often made use of rather poorly refined glass sand containing iron. This produced a naturally green or aqua colored glass, often used for inexpensive or economical, one-time-use bottles and glassware, particularly where color was of little importance. The early green Coca Cola bottles are an excellent example of this kind of glass.
In order to produce a ‘crystal clear’ glass, an essential element, manganese, was added along with the other basic ingredients that make up glass sand to counter the green effect of the iron. This produced a crystal clear glass until, of course, the glass was exposed to direct sunlight and in turn began to change! Glass manufacturers were well aware of the effect of this combination of iron and manganese together and hence, this type of glass was seldom used where the effect of the color change might be undesirable, such as window pane glass or in high quality decorative crystal.
The practice of mixing manganese with lower quality, iron-rich glass sands in manufacturing disposable glassware continued from the mid-1800’s until about 1914 when, with the advent of World War I, the supply of manganese from Germany was cut off. However, new methods were developed to produce ‘crystal clear’ glass, and the manganese was no longer needed to counteract the effect of iron in the sands used for these mass produced glass items.
The intensity of the color change of the individual pieces is determined by the amount of manganese used in that particular batch of glass. As a result we find some pieces light in color, looking more pink than purple, and some darker, with a rich, intense amethyst color.
Only select pieces of glass made during the years between about 1848 and 1914 will turn a deep purple color, and only after a prolonged exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays. Because of the age of the glass, the small subset of glass products which used this production technique, and the need for extended exposure to the sun’s light, Purple Sun Colored Antique Glass is a rare and collectible artifact, and fascinating piece of industrial history. Today the supply is extremely limited. Examples that are in good condition are rare. As with all such scarce collectibles, the values continue to appreciate.
]]>The McCoy journey began in 1848 when J.W. McCoy established the Nelson McCoy Sanitary Stoneware Company in Ohio. Initially producing utilitarian stoneware, McCoy adapted to the changing demands of the market, transitioning to the more decorative ceramic art in the early 20th century. It was during this shift that McCoy soared in popularity, captivating enthusiasts with its diverse range of designs and vibrant glazes.
One of the most iconic series from McCoy is the "Blossom Time" collection. Introduced in the 1940s, these pieces adorned with delicate floral motifs became an instant sensation. The intricate detailing and pastel hues of this series encapsulate the essence of McCoy's craftsmanship, reflecting the era's elegance and sophistication.
What sets McCoy pottery apart is not just its aesthetic appeal but also its functionality. The incorporation of both beauty and practicality in their designs made McCoy pieces beloved by homemakers and collectors alike. From planters and vases to cookie jars and kitchenware, McCoy pottery seamlessly blended artistry with everyday utility.
The hallmark of McCoy's success lies in its ability to evolve while staying true to its roots. The transition from the Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles to embracing the Mid-Century Modern movement showcased McCoy's adaptability. The clean lines and geometric shapes of their later pieces mirrored the design ethos of the era, solidifying McCoy's relevance in the ever-changing landscape of decorative arts.
Collecting McCoy pottery has become a passion for many aficionados, with each piece holding a unique story. The thrill of hunting down a rare McCoy find at antique shops, estate sales, or online auctions is an adventure cherished by enthusiasts. The diversity of designs, coupled with the thrill of uncovering hidden gems, adds an element of excitement to the pursuit of McCoy treasures.
Appreciating McCoy pottery goes beyond its aesthetic allure; it's also about understanding its historical significance. These pieces encapsulate the spirit of the times they were created in, offering a window into the cultural and artistic landscape of bygone eras. Owning a McCoy piece is like owning a piece of history—a tangible connection to the craftsmanship and artistry of yesteryears.
Today, McCoy pottery continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts, maintaining its allure across generations. Its timeless designs have ensured its relevance in contemporary settings, seamlessly blending with diverse décor styles. The enduring appeal of McCoy pottery lies in its ability to transcend time, its legacy continuing to enchant and inspire.
Whether displayed proudly in a curated collection or serving as a functional accent in a modern home, McCoy pottery remains a symbol of exquisite artistry and a testament to the enduring beauty of ceramic craftsmanship. As we admire these pieces, we not only celebrate their intrinsic charm but also pay homage to a legacy that continues to enthrall us with its timeless elegance.
]]>The Birth of Transferware: An Industrial Revolution Innovation
The story of transferware begins in the heart of the Industrial Revolution in 18th-century England. This era marked a significant shift in manufacturing processes, enabling the mass production of ceramic wares. Prior to this revolution, hand-painting intricate designs on pottery was a labor-intensive and expensive process. Enter the game-changing invention of ceramic transfer printing.
Industrial Innovation: Transfer Printing
Transfer printing, a revolutionary technique, allowed intricate designs to be transferred from engraved copper plates to pottery. This mechanized process made it possible to produce ceramics with detailed and consistent patterns at a fraction of the cost of hand-painting. As a result, ceramics became more accessible to a wider audience, and the transferware style was born.
Wedgwood: A Pioneer in Ceramics
Josiah Wedgwood, often referred to as the "Father of English Potters," played a pivotal role in the development and popularization of transferware. Wedgwood's unrelenting pursuit of excellence and innovation helped him establish a pottery dynasty that remains influential to this day.
Wedgwood and Transferware
Josiah Wedgwood was not only a masterful potter but also a shrewd businessman. He recognized the potential of transfer printing as a cost-effective and efficient method to create exquisite ceramics. Wedgwood began experimenting with this technique in the late 18th century, and soon, his pottery works in Etruria were producing some of the finest transferware pieces ever seen.
Etruria and the Birth of a Legacy
Josiah Wedgwood's factory in Etruria became the birthplace of Wedgwood's renowned transferware creations. Here, his team of skilled artisans produced exquisite designs, many inspired by classical antiquity. The iconic blue and white designs featuring scenes of nature, mythology, and historical events soon became synonymous with the Wedgwood name.
Josiah's Commitment to Quality
One of the key reasons for Wedgwood's success with transferware was his unwavering commitment to quality. He tirelessly sought to perfect the process, ensuring that every piece bearing the Wedgwood name was a masterpiece. The result was a legacy of exceptional ceramics that continue to captivate collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Wedgwood's Enduring Legacy
Today, Wedgwood's contribution to the world of ceramics, particularly in the realm of transferware, is celebrated and cherished. The classic blue and white motifs, as well as other colors and designs, continue to inspire contemporary pottery artists and collectors.
The Beauty of Wedgwood Transferware
The enduring appeal of Wedgwood transferware lies not only in its historical significance but also in its timeless beauty. Each piece tells a story through its intricate designs, evoking a sense of nostalgia and appreciation for the artistry and craftsmanship of a bygone era.
Collecting Wedgwood Transferware
For collectors, Wedgwood transferware represents a journey through time. The hunt for rare and well-preserved pieces is a rewarding endeavor. Each acquisition adds a piece of history to one's collection, and these treasures can often appreciate in value over time.
In conclusion, transferware's industrial history is a testament to human ingenuity and the power of innovation. Josiah Wedgwood's contributions to this art form are both remarkable and enduring. Wedgwood transferware remains an iconic symbol of the Industrial Revolution's impact on the world of ceramics, and its timeless beauty continues to captivate generations of collectors and art enthusiasts. Whether displayed on a shelf or used for special occasions, Wedgwood's transferware serves as a reminder of the artistry, history, and innovation that have made it a beloved part of ceramic heritage.
]]>I have been using my composting set-up for a few months now and want to provide an update on how it is going, and share some new things I have learned along the way.
In my original post, I speculated that my food waste might outpace the capacity of my composter, and I was right. After about 60 days, my worms were just not able to keep up. When adding new scraps I was finding uneaten food. I had started with about 50 red wrigglers. Even though worms can eat about half their body weight each day, 50 isn’t very many. I have also learned that the worms will be more effective if I take the extra time to chop up my vegetable food scraps. I had been lazy about doing this, but when I begin composting again I will be sure to chop up the bigger pieces. This will not only help the worms process the food more efficiently, but also take up less space in the container at the outset. Here is a nice article I found about care and feeding of your composting worms:
I have been leaving them alone for the past three weeks or so to give them a chance to catch up. I also figure that a few weeks of quiet time will give the worm population a chance to grow, and increase the composting capacity. I have learned that the worms can double their numbers about every three months, so as long as my original worms are healthy and happy, I should be getting to about 100 worms this month. Here is a good primer on worms’ reproductive cycle:
Reproductive Cycle of Composting Red Worms
Throughout the project my composting bin has maintained a wholesome, earthy smell. I have had no problem with odor. There have, however, been an abundance of tiny flies and fruit flies, and when I open the lid I find them swarming in there. I am sure this is because I have not buried my scraps deeply enough. I will watch and see if the little flies reduce or go away as the compost bin fallows over the next few weeks. Since I am composting outside, the little flies have not been too much trouble, but I do hate finding them in the house on occasion.
I hope sharing my experiences with composting will inspire you to try it, or at least that you have learned something interesting. If you enjoy this content please share it with others on your social media account, like, and comment!
]]>Working in the resale trade, I probably use more silver tarnish cleaner than the average household. Buying commercial silver cleaning products can get costly, so I am always interested in finding cheaper, easier ways to remove tarnish from my silver items. Sure, a lovely patina as the silver begins the early stages of tarnish can show well, but nothing pops like a brightly polished, shiny piece of silver!
I have had a number of household products recommended to me by clients and other sellers. I have also found some ideas for using everyday household products to clean silver while searching the internet. Since I have a group of silverplate serving pieces I need to clean up, I thought it would be fun to try some of them out and see which work best, and which is the most cost effective. I compiled my list of silver cleaning product candidates, and gathered them from around the house. Here is the list of solutions I tried:
I selected the lid to a silverplate table server that was showing pretty heavy tarnish. It was past the point of being a pretty, pinkish-gray patina and had gone mottled dark gray and black. On the surface of the piece I placed a quarter-sized amount of each solution, leaving space between to make sure they didn’t run together. I then let the solutions sit for about ten minutes before removing them.
When the ten minutes passed, I used a soft toothbrush to gently scrub each little circle of solution, one at a time, making sure to clean the brush for each one to avoid any mixing of solutions. I only gave each a few circular wipes; no serious scrubbing. I wanted to know which substance would remove the most silver tarnish with the least amount of effort. I then rinsed with water and gave a quick buff to dry.
When I had finished it looked to me like the winner was clear, the area where I had used toothpaste was the brightest. Some products didn’t look to me as though they had removed any of the tarnish. I don’t suppose that means those products won’t work, but to me it meant they required either more time, or more effort.
I applied toothpaste in an even, thin layer of the rest of the serving piece and let it stand for about 15 minutes. Using a fresh, soft microfiber towel, I buffed off the toothpaste and rinsed the silverplate under water. Presto! A bright, shiny table server ready to list for sale!
There was still a little tarnish visible on the lid and a couple tough stains that would need extra scrubbing to remove. It got me wondering if using a commercial product, like Weiman’s silver polish, would be faster and more efficient. I had some in the cupboard, and I had a matching silverplate serving piece with a similar level of tarnish, so why not a side-by-side test?
Following the instructions on the bottle, I applied the Weidman’s silver polish, rinsed, and buffed dry. It is important to mention, when I was using toothpaste I didn’t worry about getting it on my skin. With the commercial polish, wear gloves!
I have to say, the Weidman’s silver polish won this competition in my opinion. Application was fast and easy. Tarnish came off without effort. Tough stained spots were scrubbed away with a little extra effort. I guess a purpose built product should beat an improvised solution, and in this case, it did.
If you would like to buy this beautiful table server, find it here:
Vintage Crescent 3-part Silverplate Serving Dish
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]]>Recycling our food waste aligns with Good Find’s core values because it reduces unproductive landfill waste, reduces the attendant greenhouse gasses, and provides a useful asset to the recycler and their communities. But also, I live in California, and in its wisdom the State has seen fit to mandate that all Californians must share our values and begin recycling their food waste. This is not how I would choose to govern or be governed, but aside from my feeling that the government is having role confusion, I am all-in with looking at solutions to support this.
Before I begin, I need to qualify that my background is in accounting. I don’t know anything about using earthworms to recycle food waste. I have energy, passion, and an internet connection. I have combined the energy, passion and internet connection with about 40 minutes of attention, about $20 of supplies, my own admittedly strange imagination, and a willingness to learn as I go.
A quick survey of YouTube gave me the outline of what is needed to set up an earthworm food recycler (vermiculture composter). Normally, and what would only be proper for me to do, I would share the links for the various channels and clips I have viewed preparing for this project. All apologies. I just was not organized enough at the outset. I resolve to do better at posting link notes in the New Year. The short answer is, here is the shopping list I built from watching the videos:
I intend to keep this mess outside on the apartment patio, so in addition to the shopping list above, I keep an old dishwasher tabs container on the countertop to collect the food scraps in the kitchen as I make them. It has a wee handle, just like a tiny pail, and a tight lid if I need to keep any odors in. Then I can carry them out once a day or at my convenience to an old paint bucket I keep next to the composter. According to the internet, these composting systems can run clean enough to live indoors with you, but even so, it is best to save up your food waste and introduce it to the composter only about once per week.
To set up my composter, I put holes around the bottom and top. As I mentioned above, the bottom holes will allow excess liquid to drain out into the surrounding basin. The liquid that accumulates there, if any, is supposed to make a great supplement for your houseplants or patio garden. It is pretty dry out here in California, so I will have to wait and see if I get any excess, accumulated fluid from the composter. The top holes are for air to circulate and let the worms breathe. Worms might live underground, but they breathe air.
With the holes drilled in the sides of the inner tub, I used the steel wool (or any abrasive) to rough the edges around each hole. I then cut about 2” squares of my scrap screen and glued them over each hole using the waterproof, all-weather adhesive. This will keep our worms from wriggling out of the container. The glue requires 24 hours for a full cure. Also, I had read that the shredded paper should soak prior to using. At this point I emptied my shredder into a pail, added water, and let everything set for about 24 hours.
Once the adhesive has cured, I mixed my soil and my soaked, shredded paper in the bottom of the tub. On one side I used a trowel (I used my hand, ok?) to make a little hole, and I put my week’s food scraps in there. I eat a primarily vegetarian diet, so for one person I make sort of a lot of vegetable food scraps. I bury the scraps with the soil from the hole and use a little extra shredded paper over the top to make sure I have good coverage. If left uncovered, it will attract fruit flies and other micro-menaces that I don’t want around when sitting on my patio for coffee, or in the evenings.
After that, just add worms. I bought the very last container of red wrigglers at the local PetSmart. I neglected to ask the clerk if they were selling out because of California’s new recycling law (I highly doubt that is the reason). I had read that these were good choice for composting, and the package says there are something like 45 of them in there. I observed as I emptied the container that there were several very small ones at the bottom along the edges where the dirt was packed tight. I just plopped them out on top of the soil on the opposite side from the buried food waste, and closed the lid.
After one week I had accumulated a significant amount of vegetable food waste to recycle. I opened the tub and explored the place where I had emptied the worm container. It was only dirt, now. No worms. On that same side, opposite where I had left my first food scraps, I used a trowel (this time, I used a trowel) to dig a little hole and empty this week’s scraps. I covered it with the dirt from the hole and, to make sure I had good coverage, added some dry, brown leaves from the doorstep. That extra, dry, brown vegetation will help keep the moisture in balance and provide additional food for the wrigglers.
The biggest costs were the worms, at about $12 from the PetSmart (I live in a very high cost area), and the adhesive, for about $7. I feel sure that cheaper worms could have been found. If I am able to raise a lot of red wrigglers, you can bet I will be interested to learn who else in my community has been buying them at a big box retailer for $12 per package.
I am just shy of two weeks into this project and so far there is no objectionable smell on my patio and everything seems to be in order. I am concerned that the worms will not be able to keep up with me, that I will need a larger scale operation to cover even just one person. I will enjoy learning about the relationship between the scale of the waste I create, and my ability to use it gainfully. If I am successful, I should have a ton of red wrigglers available, which is an asset to me and my community. I should also be producing a volume of high quality worm castings, soil and compost, which is an asset to me and my community. I hope to use that product to grow tomatoes and other vegetables on my apartment patio.
I can’t wait to report back on this project as it continues. If you like this content, please share on your social media, comment, and subscribe. Thank you!
]]>It has been three years since Good Find took its first consignment at our storefront in Thousand Oaks, CA, and what a journey it has been. We have helped over 250 friends and neighbors sell thousands of individually unique items.
]]>It has been three years since Good Find took its first consignment at our storefront in Thousand Oaks, CA, and what a journey it has been. We have helped over 250 friends and neighbors sell thousands of individually unique items. We have sold items from our storefront at the Northstar Plaza, but also sold items across eleven different online platforms including our own, branded store, www.goodfindstores.com. We have sold our community’s treasures across the United States, Canada, Great Britain, and Japan. At various times we have provided employment income to six different individuals, and provided work for a dozen different movers and haulers. We have put on a pretty good fundraiser for the State of California, too.
Most importantly, we have built a community of shoppers and sellers who share our values of thrift, conservation, product quality, and design aesthetic. These are people who have a low time preference for finding the things they want, people who don’t know what they want until they find it, people just moving to our community, just leaving, or just shopping while they wait for their pizza pick-up from Barone’s next-door. I will miss all of those conversations and encounters. I will miss the community that has grown around the store and its operations. It has been a pleasure and a privilege to serve this community and I will continue to look for ways to advance Good Find’s core mission:
I still believe very much in the omnichannel business model: selling from brick-and-mortar as well as online. It is my hope that I will be able to find the right combination of location and economics that will allow me to return to that model. Until then, I hope everyone who has enjoyed Good Find in person will visit us online, sign up for our newsletter, and share our posts and products with their friends.
Thank you,
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This week’s entry is this beautifully colored print depicting the training techniques of William of Cavendish, which he documented in his book titled “La Methode et Invention Nouvelle de Dresser les Chevaux” and published in 1657. Translated, the title is “The New Method and Invention of Training Horses”.
When this item arrived in the store and I first found the story behind it, my interest was piqued. A few quick searches online revealed the source of the image was from Cavendish, and that this framed work was from a copy of his book on horse training. My inspection suggests this is a replica, and not actual pages from one of the editions published during Cavendish’s lifetime, but there is a visible crease in the middle where the engraved prints would have been folded in making the book. The internet searches also indicated that these images depict the early origins of the sport of dressage. I thought that was pretty interesting and wanted to know more.
So, who is this Cavendish guy? Well, he was born into a super-rich family in 1593. As a rich person, he was, of course, a courtier and awarded a number of government appointments and titles. He was variously a Knight of Bath, Viscount Mansfield, Earl of Newcastle-on-Tyne, and later Marquess and then Duke of Newcastle-on-Tyne.
During the first English civil war Cavendish fought as a loyalist to the crown. He had significant military responsibility and it appears that he fought a number of engagements to victory, but he was defeated in a battle at Marston Moor in July 1644, sort of in the middle of the war, and exiled himself to Germany.
In his post-war life he put his energy toward poetry and the arts, buy primarily he loved his horses and set about documenting the training and techniques he had used with his war horses. Although accounts of his actual soldiering don’t exactly cloak Cavendish in glory, he seems to have been very respected as a horseman. His cruelty-free training techniques were influential among the great horse masters of the time, and his methods are credited with the development of the modern sport of dressage.
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Shopping resale fights inflation by reducing the demand for new consumer goods. Many industry watchers, economists and pundits are predicting oil prices over $100 by the end of the year. Well guess what? Oil is used in the manufacture of almost anything you can think of buying this holiday season. It is used in clothing, plastic toys, packaging and more. These same people are telling us that the supply of finished goods will be lower, meaning more people will be wanting to buy the same, limited supply of items. The combination of higher input costs and more demand is what makes prices go up. A great way to fight against this kind of inflation is to reduce the demand by buying items that are already made. When you shop resale, you not only stop competing for the same scarce items on the shelves at your local Targ-Mart, you also reduce the demand for the raw materials like oil and other commodity items that go into making those products. It may not seem like much, but if a lot of people shop resale instead of buying newly imported products, it could make a real difference.
Resellers have a great selection of better-quality products to choose from. While newly made products may be stuck in port and struggling to get ashore, resellers are stocking items that are already here. These items are as diverse and plentiful as the generations of people who have previously owned them. Whether you are shopping for toys, clothing, books, jewelry, collectibles, housewares, furniture, art, or anything else, there is a reseller available to provide it from their existing stock of inventory. Professional resellers spend a lot of time and energy curating the best used items, in the best, often like-new, condition. Even if you are buying from a public marketplace like a Facebook group or other resale app, although the condition of the goods may vary, the production inputs like metal and wood are often better quality than if you were buying new. Over time, the big manufacturers and retailers have ‘value engineered’ their products to lower costs. As a result, many of the items you can buy cheaply at resale would be simply too expensive to manufacture if the equivalent quality of materials were used to manufacture the items today.
Resellers are your neighbors and small business owners. When you buy from your local thrift store, consignment store or Marketplace internet listing, the person getting the money lives and pays taxes right there in your community. They will turn right around and support the local grocer, landlord, landscaper, and school district with the money you paid. Even if you are shopping resale from an online seller who lives across the country, you are still supporting a small businessperson, and not paying your money to fund a foreign army. Here at Good Find Stores, where we sell a lot of consignment, at least half of every sale goes right back to a neighbor who is consigning with us. We put on a pretty good fundraiser for our landlord, and for the state of California, here, too!
So this holiday season, shop early, shop resale, and save the world. When you are buying from a reseller you are fighting back against inflation while giving better gifts, and supporting your community.]]>
The company Johnson & Johnson was founded in New Brunswick, NJ January 1886. The company was founded by three brothers Robert Wood Johnson, Edward Wood Johnson, and James Wood Johnson. According to pharmaphorum.com the three brothers were inspired to develop a ready to use surgical dressing. Supposedly what had spurred this passion for antiseptic precautions was a speech they had heard delivered by Joseph Lister who was a prominent antiseptic advocate. One thing was sure: one of the pillars of their business would be innovation in the field of medicine which was and always will be very needed. The Johnson brother’s company went on to distribute the first commercial first aid kits. Another factoid from pharmaphorum.com, is the kits were originally only intended for railroad workers but were wildly popular and became regular practice for treating injuries.
In the midst of the Spanish American war the military reached out to Johnson & Johnson for medical supplies. They also were contracted by the military once again shortly after the first World War to make better medi packs for the soldiers. JnJ.com recalls that these medkits were appropriately named Carlisle Kits because of the Carlisle Barracks Army installation where they were first conceived.
While I'm writing this, someone is getting the COVID-19 vaccine produced by Johnson & Johnson right now. This company has been around a long time and has a storied history. To have one of it’s old relics from 90 years ago is what adds value to me writing about it.
When I look at the small rusted AutoKit I feel as if it's an important part of history. It’s always fun when I can take something like an old rusty first aid kit and see the importance of where it came from and why it was made. We see so much variety in the products we get, it could be one of a kind art or an everyday piece of furniture. Every week there is almost always a piece that I’m glad I got to learn about. This is my last week at Good Find Stores, I’ve been working here since June and it's been a gratifying experience. I didn’t see myself working here for the summer but I’m glad fate had its way. With all the constant turmoil the world seems to be in, it was priceless to have practice finding beauty in the mundane task of listing inventory. I will continue to try to find the beauty in everything life has to offer and I would encourage anyone to do the same. Peace and Love from Good Find Stores.
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]]>Most furniture
How much would you pay for a newly made sofa? How long is the fabrication and delivery backlog? Oftentimes, if you check in with your local reseller you will find sofas, sectionals, loveseats and configurations you hadn’t thought of. Naturally, to find the right combination of style and quality you are seeking you may need to shop many and shop often, but it will always be #betterthannew
Glassware, barware, crystal
Why would you go buy lower-quality glasses at some department store when you could buy Waterford and other great names like Stuart Crystal, Steuben Glass, Candlewick, and more. Depression glass, sunglass, amber glass; all better than some big box, non-resale retail throwaway-ware.
Lamps
Desk lamps, table lamps, floor lamps. Any kind of lamp, there is a better-quality lamp waiting at your local resale store, thrift store, or reseller. We have imported generations of Old World beauty, and fabricated decades of quality craftsmanship. You don’t need a catalogue of imports to find an amazing, rare or unique feature for your room.
Mirrors
Wall mirrors are one of those items which all homes need at least a few. For that same reason, there are always plenty of them floating around looking to get re-homed. And like everything else, older mirrors were made better. For better variety of styles, #neverbuynew.
Fashion
Stand out from the crowd with fashion that says something about your principles. Resale items say you are unique, respect thrift and value, and like a classic style. There are a lot of exciting styles and accessories available for those who will seek.
Fine art, wall art, period pieces
Fine art is one of the very best things you should #neverbuynew. Fine art is not just something to make your home more beautiful and your quality of life better, it is also a great investment. On average, fine art has appreciated in value over time, and your local reseller probably sees some great pieces. I know we sure do here at Good Find Stores.
Décor items accents and accessories
The décor and accent pieces we see at Good Find are just incredible. Any one of them would light up your contemporary space with a touch of the classical, a hint of the avant-garde, a pop of art-deco, or bring home the authenticity of your theme-styled space.
In addition to being rare, desirable, and holding their value, resale items are often made from production inputs that you could never find today, due to their high cost. Industries that make things have been financialized until the marginal quality is equal to the marginal cost. Vintage items are often made with things like wood, copper, brass, iron, or even steel, which you won’t find in items being made today. For a whole host of the things you will buy for your home, your best buy is at your local thrift store, consignment store, or other reseller.
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]]>I learned of The World’s Work when a collection of them, covering the first fourteen years of publication, from January, 1901 through the end of 1914, were brought into the store here at Good Find. Like with all our products, I researched the collection’s marketability and pricing, but as sometimes happens, my interest was captured by these volumes of rich, zesty history. The more I read them the more I was fascinated by how closely history seemed to echo its rhyme across more than a hundred years to remain relevant today. As I read more and more articles, I became inspired to share them and to explore together the ways in which our past might inform our present and our future, and to reflect on how much and how little has changed.
To this end, I have begun a new blog series for our growing audience of readers, history buffs and curious minds. Our new series exploring The World’s Work will be our first to include an accompanying audio/image version on our YouTube channel. I hope you will enjoy it, like, subscribe and share with your friends.
When I first read this article I thought to myself: ‘Fake News!’, and how could one not? The familiar echo of people rebutting and mistrusting the press is unmistakable. Just like today, though, the only way I could know whether the criticisms were legitimate was to step back and look at the context of this writing, and ideally, to read the accused publications and dispatches for myself.
To start, I asked myself what this author is really saying. A few things stood out that I felt informed me about the author’s underlying principles and views. For example, “news-gathering is not even yet truthfully organized”. I think he is saying that journalism, as a trade, is not yet very professionalized, versus making another complaint about truthfulness. I think he is giving a sort of backhanded pardon to the industry by allowing that they are still perfecting their trade, and so it is an excuse that there are some bad journalists. Another interesting comment by the author is that publications should employ reputable people, who have their identity, and therefore their reputation, attached to the accuracy and legitimacy of their dispatches. For me, this is very much a timely topic. Today, as our society struggles with the role of journalism in world affairs, and as credibility and truthfulness of the media is very much in question, there is now a strong debate and widely accepted position that anonymity, pseudonymity, and privacy are very much associated with authenticity and truth. It is worth reflecting on who, in our time, would align with the editorial staff at The World’s Work in 1901 in saying that people should have to identify themselves to be taken seriously, versus who would say that anonymity is crucial in being able to express a truthful view. And of course, this very last part, where the author says that the temptation for some to lie is particularly so in the tropics, and in foreign lands. This seems like a pretty full statement. On its surface, maybe it is about xenophobia or racism, and probably it is. But if the question were put to the author, I feel sure the statement would be about the human inclination for self-interest, and the diminishing effect of authorities over individuals as distance between the two increases.
For more context, it is helpful to know what the reporting from last summer, which is the object of the writer’s ire, actually was about. The article is referring to the Boxer Rebellion, then occurring in China. By the time of this article, the events that came to define the rebellion were over, but in the summer of 1900, eight nations were in a red hot conflict with China, and the Chinese regional and municipal governments were divided between what I will way-too-oversimplify and call traditionalism, versus what I will way-too-oversimplify and call westernization. The real, complicated reasons for the conflict included religious and cultural conflicts, internal and global politics, drought, and lots and lots of business and economic interests. Those power interests in the United States would have been following developments in China very closely, and getting accurate information, especially information that could settle armed conflict in favor of commercialization, would have been paramount.
The specific incidents in question happened in June, 1900. The foreign ministers, along with a number of foreign armed forces and Chinese Christians were under siege in China, and over the course of the month, events led to the deaths of two ministers, those of Japan and Germany. The ministers were killed on separate occasions, and both times the ministers had been found in the street by irregular combatants, i.e. not by soldiers of the Imperial Chinese army. If news outlets incorrectly reported that the ministers had been killed by torture, or killed by forces of the Imperial army, there is a big difference in terms of how people would feel, and what an appropriate government response would be.
Alas, I have not tracked down the misleading dispatches themselves, nor have I identified the depraved scoundrel in Galveston. Maybe one of you readers will take up the research and leave a comment below letting us know the culprit!
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]]>The painting in question is by Violet Parkhurst, a wonderful woman that led a full and vibrant life. She sadly passed away in 2008 but she left behind a rich legacy. This painting is very rare, as Violet mostly painted seascapes. This work depicts two burros in what we believe to be the famous California ghost town of Bodie. Bodie was an old gold mining town, now a historical national park.
I wanted to learn the name given by the artist for this painting, and spent hours trying to find the name of this piece, but it came to nothing. We were able to validate the signature as belonging to Violet easily enough, comparing our item’s signature with other, known works sold at auctions, or on the Parkhurst galleries website. Alas, we were not able to find mention of this piece online, and we have not found any good image match either. At Good Find, we consider the image rights to an artwork as a component of that piece’s overall value. This painting seems to have been only viewed privately since it was first painted. To have a painting of this subject, so uncommon to the artist, is a special delight.
Much of what I learned about Violet Parkhurst was found on parkhurstgalleries.com. According to the website, Violet believed that before someone could become a great artist they had to see the world. So she did just that, going everywhere from Canada to Mexico City where she briefly studied with Diego Rivera’s wife. After her short stint in Mexico, having received a scholarship to the Rio de Janeiro Museum, she went to Brazil. Violet's stay in Rio was also brief due to a revolution, so she moved to Natal Brazil where she wrote and illustrated a book titled “Jaguar By The Tale”. Her stay in Brazil was what transcended her fabled career to stardom. She soon became a foreign correspondent for movie magazines back in America. Violet got to meet all kinds of celebrities and movie stars. She ended up having a relationship with “The King of Hollywood”, Clark Gable. Violet later moved away from writing to painting, making works of art of her neighbors, local market, and huts in her neighborhood in Natal, Brazil. Violet was a specialist in genres women seldom ventured in painting which were seascapes and nudes. She is famed for her glorious seascapes. A host of celebrities and even President Nixon had her paintings in their collections. Her art is displayed in the Great Hall of the People's Republic of China and China National Museum of Fine Art. Parkhurst is the only westerner to have accomplished such a feat. You can read more about Violet’s civic achievements and see more, beautiful examples of her work at parkhurstgalleries.com
Photo from parkhurstgalleries.com
Violet would usually stick to her wild seashore, but every once in a while would flex a different artistic muscle. The result is the fantastic yet elusive painting of the two Burros. Having the work of an artist of the caliber of Violet Parkhurst is an honor and privilege to us here at Good Find. We love to be able to share truly fine art like our featured piece this week, and to be inspired by it’s excellence and rarity. We hope that you can appreciate this wonderful piece of artwork like we do. Take a look at all the other gems and other special items we have listed on our online store at www.goodfindstores.com
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Smaller, but also impressive NFT sales have been reported, and big brands like the NHL, NBA, Aston Martin and others all have projects underway to participate in this burgeoning marketplace. Small creators and undiscovered artists are also discovering NFTs, and the strong interest from buyers in the marketplace.
But what the heck is an NFT, and why would anyone buy one? How do NFTs affect my life, and why does it matter? And why am I reading about NFTs in a blog about antiques, art, collectibles and the resale life? Time for another installment of: What Do You Know About That?
To answer the first part, what the heck is an NFT, I am totally going to plagiarize from www.crypto.com/nft, where they answer the question this way:
“NFT stands for a non-fungible token, which represents unique, irreplaceable assets that live on the blockchain. In-game assets, digital art, and collectible-related projects are the most prominent NFT use cases today.
In contrast, fungible assets have units that are interchangeable with one another, such as bitcoin or the dollar bill.”
Ahah! I saw it! There in the definition it says collectible-related projects are among the prominent NFT uses today! I think that answers the last part of our questions, ‘why am I reading about NFTs in a blog about antiques, art, and collectibles?’. It is because there is a use case, some valuable utility, in applying the NFT technology and process to real world collectibles (antiques and art, too). The process of creating an NFT that is represented by, say, a work of art, involves documenting key information about the item’s provenance. This information is stored on a network that is very, very, very secure, ensuring that the provenance of the item is visible to everyone, and cannot be altered. The process of creating the NFT also gives the opportunity to describe what rights are associated with the “Token” version of the item, versus the item itself. For example, you might buy an NFT for a piece of art which you think is valuable, but for which you do not want to take physical possession. Or maybe you could buy an object with separable image rights, so that you could license the use of the item’s image.
At Good Find Stores bringing more access to more buyers at better prices is a basic part of what we are trying to do as a market maker for our community. It is among our company’s First Principles to conserve the wealth and value our neighbors have built; to preserve the history and heritage of artists, artisans and craftsmen; to reuse, recycle, upcycle and repurpose the quality works of our shared history, both distant and recent. We think there is an opportunity to use this growing, innovative technology to improve the value we bring to our community.
So, at least we have scratched the surface, I hope, on what an NFT is and why you are reading about it in a blog about resale life. But how does it affect your life, and why do NFTs matter? Well, some of that has been answered already, too: if you are a seller at Good Find Stores, we will be adding more marketplaces to our kit of selling tools, which could mean better prices and more liquidity for our sellers. I think, though, even if you are not a seller at Good Find Stores, these NFTs are going to start showing up all over the place, in every part of life, and in places we don’t expect yet. I am sure it won’t be too long before real estate titling is done using NFTs. All kinds of food products will be supported by a digital token that tells you where it came from and what it has been through. Those are just a couple examples.
If you want to learn more about NFTs while supporting Good Find Stores, check out these books on Amazon. As an Amazon Associate can I earn from qualifying purchases:
“NFT For Beginners: The Ultimate Non Fungible Token (NFT) Guidebook. A Practical Guide to Everything NFT in Everyday Language”
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]]>This time, in the course of my research, I found that little was written about the artist himself, however I instantly saw why I was drawn to his work. Urbain Huchet’s gallery of paintings were flourishing and lively. Huchet was also a very talented lithographer, which is also something new I learned while trying to find the origin of this painting. Please joining me in exploring the magnificent Huchet’s masterpieces.
Born in 1930 on April 28th, Urbain Huchet would spend the early years of his life in Rennes, France. In 1960 he decided, after studying law and owning a textile factory in France, it was time to expand his horizons. Huchet found himself drawn to the arts. Inspired by the likes of the Post Impressionist, Gauguin, and Symbolist, Emile Bernard, he formed his own fluid and free style of painting. He was exemplary at watercolor as well as painting on canvas. The Frenchman had an itch for travel and scoured the globe going everywhere from the Middle East, Egypt, Mexico, and India. His works are recognized by his free and open approach with his paintings. His pieces have been described as a beautiful expression of the world around him. He has a plethora of paintings depicting his version of the canals of Venice, streets of Paris and many other landscapes that inspired him when traveling the world.
Curating this brilliant artist’s work is, to me, one of the more important missions here at Good Find Store. We want to magnify the majesty of all the artworks that come through our doors. Just as Huchet shared his vibrant perspective of those landscapes that inspired him so much, the painting that we have showcased here in this week's newsletter is an inspiration to us to see this piece to its new home. I think it’s reminiscent of a gorgeous landmark in Paris, the Pont Neuf, the oldest bridge in Paris. It stretches across the Seine River. In fact most if not all of his artworks are portrayals of cities and coastlines of the Brittany region, the coastline of France facing the Atlantic Ocean. Urbain Huchet was a rather spectacular artist, having exhibits all over the world in places like Egypt, Paris, New York, and New Orleans. A craftsman of his stature and the beauty he conveyed on a canvas he for me to drink in and appreciate is one of the many benefits you have when working with such treasured items. Urbain is unfortunately not with us anymore; he passed away in 2014 at the age of 84. His work will live on and I feel a sense of history and responsibility having his signed and original artwork, and want to let as many people know how talented this man was. I’m privileged with sharing this amazing artist’s work with you all, and I hope that you take the time to appreciate this painting, and all of the hidden beauties we have here at Good Find Stores.
If you have any curiosity about the Pont Neuf bridge check out this link for more facts: Pont Neuf
If you want to immerse yourself more in the beauty of the canals of Paris give this a look: Canal of the Sun King: The Birth of the Canal du Midi
(Full disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases)
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]]>I see hundreds of items every week that make me ask questions like this. What is it? Where did it come from? Why do people care? And it is my happy fortune to get to google those items and learn a little bit about history, commerce, industry, and production.
Sometimes though, I dig a little deeper to learn just a little bit more about the uncommon gifts, rare collectibles, resale junk and fine art that passes through the doors of Good Find Stores and share it with you in a blog segment I call: What Do You Know About This?
Seltmann is the family name of the man who founded a porcelain company in 1910. His name was Christian Wilhelm Seltmann (born 1870). He first learned to be a porcelain lathe operator and modeled and painted porcelain in his free time. The Seltmann Weiden company began its production of utility and luxury porcelain initially with three round ovens, which were increased by two in 1913.
The original Porzellanfabriken (porcelain factory) was located in Weiden in der Oberpfalz (officially Weiden idOPf). Weiden Is a city in the eastern Bavarian administrative district of Upper Palatinate. It is located 100 km east of Nuremberg and 35 km west of the border with the Czech Republic. Right about here:
Here is the rest of the entry from Wikipedia (if you click through the link remember to set your browser to translate, and don’t forget to donate to Wikipedia.org!):
This is actually where our story kicks in: after the war. You see, the three little letters at the very bottom of the mark are U.S.Z. for United States Zone. These dishes were made shortly after the end of the war, sometime between 1946 and 1949. What’s more, we can guess that this set of china was made at the original Weiden idOPf location, since the other factories were damaged and serving as barracks at the time. One other fact that informs the origin of our dinnerware and the lion-and-shield stamp on the bottom: supply lines weren’t really moving at that time. At least not for shipping retail and hotel porcelain out of rural Bavaria. This set of dishes could only have been purchased by someone physically present at the Porzellanfabriken.
It must have been quite a scene back then. In addition to the porcelain factory, Weiden was also the home to Stalag XIIIB, where prisoners of war were kept. At its peak in April, 1944 the Weiden Stalag held 35,000 soldiers from Russia, Great Britain, the U.S., France, Belgium, Poland, Serbia, Spain, and Yugoslavia, according to Uncommon Travel Germany. They go on to say that many of the men, perhaps 90%, were put to work in farms, mines, and factories. It is possible some of these men were familiar with the workings of the Seltmann porcelain factory.
I don’t have the provenance on our set of Seltmann Weiden fine china to know if they were purchased there by a serviceman, or even possibly by a liberated POW. We know for sure, though, that whoever bought this set of dishes was on the ground in post-war Germany, between 1946 and 1949, and that it was able to travel to Southern California and survive until now in its current, like-new condition.
After the war, the Seltmann porcelain works has carried on and prospered. Following the death of the founder, Christian, in 1921 the business was run briefly by his wife, and then his son, Wilhelm (1895-1967). The Seltmann companies are still making great products today, and it didn’t take long looking through their website to find some really great porcelain. I fell in love a little with this statuette:
Here is a peak at one of our Seltmann china pieces now available at Good Find:
Shop a single piece or buy a custom group; we have listed the different dishes separately for your convenience. Please reach out if you have trouble with shipping costs. Get them while they last!
If you would like to learn more about German, Bavarian and Bohemian porcelain and their markings, check out this book on Amazon:
Marks on German, Bohemian and Austrian Porcelain: 1710 To the Present
For an image-rich journey through Germany during the last part of the war and the years that followed, documenting the time period during which our Seltmann china was being produced and sold, check out this book on Amazon:
(Full disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases)
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]]>I see hundreds of items every week that make me ask those questions. What is it? Where did it come from? Why do people care? And it is my happy fortune to get to google those items and learn a little bit about history, commerce, industry and production.
Sometimes though, I dig a little deeper to learn just a little bit more about the uncommon gifts, rare collectibles, resale junk and fine art that passes through the doors of Good Find Stores and share it with you in a blog segment I call: What Do You Know About This?
This portrait is a print of an original work by a famous painter in the 1700’s named Thomas Gainsborough (1727 – 1788). Gainsborough was one of the most famous portrait and landscape painters in England and was commissioned for portraits of the rich and famous. His subjects included Queen Charlotte, the queen consort to George III and Queen of Hanover, King George III himself, and the fourth Duke of Argyll, among other big seventeenth century glitterati. You can find Gainsborough’s complete works online at The Thomas Gainsborough organization.
The woman depicted in this print is Mrs. Mary Robinson Perdita (1758 – 1800). Mrs. Robinson led a storied life and is still regarded as an important figure in poetry, literature, and feminism to this day. Mrs. Robinson was an acclaimed actress among her many talents and had caught the eye of the prince regent and future king of England, King George IV, when he saw her performing in a Shakespeare play. The story goes that Gainsborough was commissioned to paint Mrs. Robinson by the prince regent while they were lovers. I gather the prince had a lot of mistresses, because the painting he commissioned was not even completed before he had moved on to his next affair, leaving Mrs. Robinson, as shown here, pining for her lover in the gardens, alone but for the companionship of her pet dog. She is simping for him so bad, she is literally holding a little figurine of the King. When Gainsborough completed the work, George gave the portrait of his former lover to Francis Seymour-Conway, the first Marquess of Hertford who was the husband of his current lover The Countess Isabella Seymour-Conway!
Once the prince had moved on to his next lover, it is said Mrs. Robinson was to receive an income of 500 pounds per year from the prince. That’s about $85,000 per year in today’s dollars! Reportedly, though, the prince welched on his promise and never paid her the income. You can read more about the life of Mrs. Mary Robinson here:
Perdita : The Life of Mary Robinson
Or, enjoy reading some of Mrs. Robinson’s poetry here:
(Full disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases)
Today, the original work by Gainsborough can be viewed at Hertford House in London, England, where it is a part of the Wallace collection. The Wallace Collection is a national museum displaying the art collections of the first four Marquesses of Hertford, and Sir Richard Wallace, who is thought to be the illegitimate son of the 4th Marquess. You can visit the collection and learn more at The Wallace Collection.
Those seamy details make good reading, but does it explain why this image is so familiar? Probably not. Although the original work is said to dazzle with its brilliant yet delicate colors and detail, the popularity of the image probably stems from its reproduction by printers and engravers at the turn of the last century. In the early 1900’s and into the 1920’s, engravers began making reproduction print art for everyday home décor. Reproducing a masterwork like this one by Gainsborough allowed the engravers to demonstrate the superiority of their craft through the detailed replication of both subtle and brilliant colors, and copies sold for mass consumption proliferated. Oftentimes, if you find a Mrs. Robinson print in an antique store or thrift store like Good Find, you might also find the name of the engraver signed near the bottom, below the image, where an artist might sign a limited print.
The example I have has a hand-written name on the bottom, but it is the original artist’s name, Gainsborough, not the engraver’s name, and on the opposite corner is the name Mrs. Robinson. Of considerable interest, too, is the frame. This frame was made by H. Antoville Picture and Art Shop, who operated in New York in the late teens and early twenties of the last century. It has this cool, early deco-looking W at the bottom, a little scroll at the top, and an easy, shapely sway to the sides, edged with delicate vines and capped by rounded corners. In the case of this Mrs. Robinson, the frame is also a beauty.
Shop this fine example of a Mrs. Robinson at www.goodfindstores.com along with scores of other interesting art, including original art by celebrated artists.]]>Fine art is also in demand! If you have original works by know artists, collectors are in the market. Submit photos of your art to rob@goodfindstores.com and I will help your fine art find a new home.
And last but not least: our supply of Lladro statuettes is getting low due to strong buyer demand. If you have been putting off listing an estate collection or clearing out your own group of Lladro, now may be the time!
Good Find continues to keep regular retail hours, from noon to six, Tuesday through Saturday, while this horrible pandemic continues. If you come see us at the store please remember to wear you mask and limit the number of people in your party. Shop safely at home at www.goodfindstores.com
Stay safe! And remember: #neverbuynew
]]>Bring your clean, used Acorn Newspapers and paper grocery bags to Good Find and I will put them to good use.
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Social distancing is easy at Good Find. We are now open for in-store sales, with two customers inside at a time. Masks are required. Or, shop online and pick-up curb-side. Stay safe! Our community has been doing great!
Paper Drive at Good Find!
Bring your clean, used Acorn Newspapers and paper grocery bags to Good Find and I will put them to good use.
One of our main missions at Good Find is the conservation, re-use and recycling of our communities resources. With our internet business booming, we can put your clean, used paper grocery bags and copies of the Acorn Newspaper to use right away as packing material. I HATE buying packing paper! It is a double waste! Help us save money by dropping your paper bags and Acorn Newspapers off at the store during our regular business hours, noon to six, Tuesday through Saturday.
Good Find Swag
Support Good Find and help us get the word out with a Good Find tee-shirt, now available online or in-store. Buy one now at Good Find Swag !
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While we are continuing in Phase 2 mode of operations, sellers wishing to recover their items may schedule curbside pick-up during any of our regular hours. We will operate under these conditions until such time as the state and county move to the next phase of the reopening plan.
At Good Find, we have used the time to make a number of exciting improvements!
Thank you for shopping with Good Find!
]]>Condition issues can be chips, for sure, but other problems include crazing, stains, use marks such as micro-scratches on the surface or worn gilding or paint. Even table wear on the bottoms of plates or cups can impact the value of an item.
Chips, breaks and repairs are always going to reduce the appeal of items to the collector. Handles and relief ornamentation are especially susceptible to this kind of damage. Damaged items may still be suitable for use in home decor, if the damage is minor or not easily seen, but the collector will look for items that are intact. Expect to realize only a fraction of an item’s value if it is chipped, or has been glued.
Crazing is the fine spider web of cracks that can be seen on some antique and vintage pottery. Crazing occurs in glaze when the glaze is exposed to high amounts of weight pressure over time, or when the items are stored in a location that experiences significant temperature changes year after year. For some items, where the crazing has been brought about intentionally, it can enhance the value, but for fine china and most other collectible porcelain and pottery, it will reduce the desirability and sale price of the item.
Stains also indicate a misuse or improper storage of the item. Water or other liquids, like tea or coffee, left to dry on the glaze or items that were not clean when they were stored can become stained. Stains have a significant impact on the appearance of the items and collectors will avoid stained pieces.
Micro-scratches caused by ordinary use of the items can vary significantly in severity, as can wear on paint and gilding. The degree to which the value is affected will depend both on the significance of the damage and the rarity and desirability of the piece. Rare and in-demand items may still command a strong price if the supply of the same or similar items show relatively more wear.
Not every ‘flaw’ on an item is a condition problem though. For many pieces, the imperfections arising from human touch or the fabrication process are important to the identity of the item. If there is doubt about whether an imperfection is from the production process or not, see your local re-seller. They will have seen many examples and have studied pricing for hundreds more. They can help you understand the value of your item in today’s market, and the impact of any imperfections on your collection.
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