How to Appraise Collectible Art Pottery

This article is about how to appraise collectible art pottery, such as Toby jugs, character jugs, Loving Cups, Bunnykins, animals, and figures and figurines.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A Good Eye
• A Magnifying Glass
• A White Light
• A Guidebook

1. 
   The original figurine is worth $1,200. It's updated version is only worth $350.

   Discern what the collectible piece is. Who produced it? When? Many pieces are re-released as different versions of an original. Some are produced in special or limited editions. Some have been mass-produced and others are extremely rare. You'll want to note the colors, and shape of the piece. If the piece has a company backstamp or an artist's initials carved into the bottom, this will hint at some very important information, such as who made it and in what year. But if you want to discover the most about a piece, and thus to help justify its selling price, pick up a guidebook like the Charlton Guide. These books usually dedicate themselves to one area of collectibles, like Tobys & Character Jugs, Figurines, Bunnykins, Animals, etc. They also give you the ballpark figures you'll need to appropriately price the piece. Supplement this information with some online research.

2. 
   Charlton Guides release new editions every year to keep up with changes.

   Using a magnifying glass, evaluate the condition of a piece. Obviously, the better the condition, the higher you can appraise it. Under a bright clear light, you'll need to check for abnormal cracks, evidence of past repair (like glue spots or hairline cracks) any stains, dirt that doesn't come off, etcetera. You'll also want to know the past history of the piece from the former owner. Was the last owner a smoker? Were the pieces kept sealed or out in the open? If a piece was repaired, was it repaired by a professional restorer? Even if a piece is rare, expect the condition to factor into its appraisal.

3. Finally, we're going to get into specifics. Not all pieces produced at the same time look alike. The pieces produced at the beginning of a production cycle have sharper details than those produced near the end of a cycle. This is because as pieces continue to be produced, the molds used to make them begin to wear down. Obviously, a more detailed piece is best. Another point to consider is if the piece belongs to a set. If the owner has the additional pieces, ready to sell all together, this can greatly increase their shared value.

Tips & Warnings

• Whitley Collection/Seaway China to host inaugural Royal Doulton Event and Exhibition in Ypsilanti, Michigan In the true spirit of innovation, Whitley Collection/Seaway China announces a premier Doulton International Event to take place July 17-19, 2009 at the Ann Arbor Marriott Ypsilanti at Eagle Crest in Ypsilanti, Michigan. This preeminent international exposition will feature an expansive roster of prestigious, international exhibitors featuring the finest in Royal Doulton, Moorcroft, and other masters of British art pottery design. Serving as the venue for this cultural event, the Ann Arbor Marriott at Eagle Crest is nestled on a 135 acre championship golf course and offers a tranquil park setting and resort-style amenities. The Ann Arbor Marriott will be transformed into a dazzling art gallery, displaying the finest in British ceramic and art pottery design. Gregg Whittecar and Arron Rimpley, promoters for this international event and owners of Whitley Collection and Seaway China located in Doral, Florida, have been providing collectors around the world with the finest in Royal Doulton, Moorcroft, Wedgwood and other fine art pottery and ceramics. They have successfully organized and participated in numerous expositions throughout the world. The promoters are also authors of the book Royal Doulton: A Legacy of Excellence 1871-1945, depicting the important contributions made by the Doulton Company during the late 19th and early 20th century. When the doors open Friday night, collectors will be greeted with a champagne reception and the opportunity to preview and acquire their own piece of British history. The shopping will continue Saturday with a spectacular dinner party being planned for that evening. Guests will also be invited to the final exhibition day on Sunday. "This Doulton International Event will create excitement not seen in years" said Arron Rimpley. "We look forward to welcoming collectors and exhibitors from the United States, Europe and around the world to our extraordinary event in July." This innovative Royal Doulton Event is devoted to bringing the finest in antique English art pottery to discerning collectors and dealers from around the world. To RSVP to this exciting event please visit DoultonEvent.com whitley collection ATTENTION DEALERS AND POTENTIAL SHOW EXHIBITORS: BECOME A PART OF THIS GREAT EVENT We are seeking quality dealers. This Premiere Royal Doulton Event has already generated much excitement a

Resources

• Guides that will help you

[tundranut]

on 3/24/2009 Wonderful informative article, and very well written. Thanks, and welcome to eHow. 5*