Antiques & Collectibles
Barbara Bell
Articles
A Building Goes from Trash to Treasure
Syracuse, New York, regains one of its architectural gems when the old train station is restored.
Enjoying the revival of the American Front Porch with an overview of its evolution
Harry Rinker, the Collectors' Guru: Part II
My interview with Harry Rinker of HGTV's "Collector Inspector" continues.
Harry Rinker, the Collectors' Guru: Part I
In which I interview Harry Rinker of HGTV's "Collector Inspector"! Part I.
Adelaide Alsop Robineau, Master Ceramist
A biography of one of the Arts & Crafts movement's most influential artists, Adelaide Alsop Robineau.
Enjoy the collecting craze of retro Mid-Century Modern!
Now You're Cookin'! Vintage Kitchenware
Various kitchen items photographed at State Fair antiques show express the wide range of collectibles available.
Collecting Creamer-and-Sugar Sets
If you can't find room for a set of dinnerware, why not collect these "orphans" of the china world?
Internet fraud is on the upswing. Updating 1998 article with suggestions on protecting yourself from the crooks.
Collecting a Painful Past: Black Memorabilia
Many African Americans have become avid collectors of black history antiques, ephemera, militaria and objects which help them understand their own pasts.
Kwanzaa Gifts and Collectibles - Pass on the Spirit!
Kwanzaa begins December 26. Share its values and traditions with your family with special gifts and collectibles.
For the Childhood Memories Event, a recollection of my mother's of Havana, Cuba.
It's easier to be a copyeditor at Suite101 than to be a proofreader in the "real" world!
Today's Hot Christmas Collectibles
Finding additions to your Christmas collections made fun and simple!
A traveling appraisal fair reveals some interesting information.
Several readers have sent questions about their antiques - which kept me busy this summer!
Antique Clocks Identification and Price Guide: A Book Review
Reviewing the new e-book price guide on Antique Clocks.
Celebrate Teddy Bear's centennial!
Second part of a series on residential lighting, both vintage and reproduction.
Light Up Your Life the Old-Fashioned Way!
Shopping for vintage and reproduction lighting for your home.
Shaker Furniture, Part II: Faith in Form
Part II of a series on Shaker furniture, its spiritual foundation and expression.
Shaker Furniture, Part I: Faith in Form
A brief introduction to Shaker furniture, which expresses in its simplicity both their faith and their spirit.
Christmas Mix of Past and Present
Decorating for the holiday using your collections and making it work!
The Potteries of New England, Part V: Low Art Tile Works
Last in a series of articles focusing on the most influential and successful art pottery firms in New England.
The Potteries of New England, Part IV: Grueby
The evolution of the famous Grueby matte glazed pottery, so often imitated but never matched!
The Potteries of New England, Part III: Dedham
The distinctive blue and gray crackled glaze of Dedham pottery was serendipity!
The Potteries of New England, Part II: Hampshire and Marblehead
Exploring the potteries of New England, from the late 18th century through the early 20th century.
The Potteries of New England, Part I: Bennington
Exploring the history of potteries in New England, from Bennington to Dedham.
Is this a good time to re-enter the antiques business? Readers' input is sought!
In the days after September 11, 2001, a collector offers some suggestions.
Antiques & Collectibles Q & A, Part V
More questions from readers of this column, which range widely in subject matter!
Learning about antique weather vanes is a short course in Americana. One reader inquires about her authentic "running horse" vane.
Third part of a series for readers' inquiries about their antiques and collectibles.
A collector of dinnerware inquires about her early earthenware platter.
Lacking a response to my solicitation to readers, I answer questions from past correspondence.
A little bit of a change from the usual...
A brief overview of thimble collecting.
Collecting the "Smalls" of Vintage Fashion
Hats, handbags and makeup accessories are a hot collecting category!
The History of the Hoosier Cabinet and Where to Find Them Today
As American home life gradually lost the services of "hired help", housewives demanded convenience and efficiency in order to maintain the kitchen without extra help. Thus was born the Hoosier Cabinet!
The Oneida Community began as one man's vision of Perfection on Earth, but today is known for its successful commercial ventures, especially silverplate, flatware and tableware.
A connection between Portmeirion china and the Welsh village of the same name, is no coincidence!
Gene Gill, Artist Extraordinaire
Gene Gill creates unique one-of-a-kind miniature models of historical landmark buildings and monuments from around the world. His web site reproduces each of the miniatures he has crafted during the past 10 years. Your visit here will be like taking a mini-tour around the world.
The World of Model Railroading
It's not just toy trains for children anymore, but a fascinating and absorbing hobby for adults.
Setting a Price for Selling Your Antiques
My response to this reader's question ended up as an article!
Is It Really Called "Golfiana"?
Collecting golf-related memorabilia is a fun and fascinating adjunct to the sport, for pros and duffers alike...
Steppin' Out - Collecting Canes and Walking Sticks
Collectors of walking sticks and canes are preserving a long tradition that goes back to the Pharaohs. You'll be amazed at this history!
Theaters have a never-ending need for clothing, furniture and décor from many historical periods. Can you help?
A variety of tiny worlds from Department 56 to Alaskan habitats, let us imagine ourselves inhabiting another place and time!
17th Century Russian Orthodox Iconography
The great ecclesiastical artforms, Russian icons, are explored within the context of Russian Orthodox history up to and including the seventeenth century.
As soon as I arrived in Anchorage, Alaska a few months ago, I headed for the first antiques shop I saw.
Reading my "Comments" results in some rewarding information.
Some interesting websites which appeared in my mail...
A Compendium of Wedding Collectibles
Wedding-related collectibles are a way to indulge two obsessions at once!
A brief history of the American jigsaw puzzle.
Mary Gregory Glassware depicts an idyllic Victorian world in many colors.
Collecting the Reel Thing - Antique Fishing Tackle
We explore the fascinating hobby of collecting antique fishing tackle, lures and flies.
The Fine Porcelains of Limoges, France
The history and collecting of porcelain from Limoges.
The (Budget)Wise Art Collector
Guidelines for the beginning collector of fine art on a modest budget.
A brief history of wicker furniture, the manufacturers and styles from Victorian to present.
You voted - now see the results of the Hot Trends Poll!
Review of the Antique Trader's Comprehensive Guide to American Painted Porcelain, with Values, by Dorothy Kamm, Krause Publications, 1999.
Future Stock or Future Schlock?
What are the next hot trends in collecting? Vote in the poll!
Putting on my baseball cap transforms me into Lois Lane!
Collecting vintage movie posters is a hot trend!
And You thought Chintz Was Just Wallpaper!
The re-emergence of popular Chintzware and reproductions are fueling the latest collecting trend.
Let It Snow! Snowglobes, That Is!
Collecting snowglobes can provide both nostalgia and profit, but returns us to a more innocent time regardless of our motives!
Old-fashioned Christmas Collectibles
Family memories are recalled with vintage Christmas decorations for your collection.
Celebrate Christmas 1999 with a limited edition plate!
Louis Prang, Father of the American Christmas Card
Louis Prang, Father of Christmas Cards
Thomas Cook and the Grand Tours
A brief history of the early days of tourism, conceived by the visionary Thomas Cook.
The life of the greatest actress in the world, Sarah Bernhardt!
A history of one of the most enduring and charming of Victorian china styles, which has been restored to popularity among collectors.
The rise of tourism in the late19th century recalled with Torquay, Mauchline, Tunbridge, and Tartan wares.
Ceramic tile has a history stretching back more than one thousand years.
Pasadena, California, is a vital living museum of the Arts & Crafts era in architecture.
The End of a Century - Art Nouveau Style
An in-depth look at the end of the 19th century and the Art Nouveau style which has come to symbolize "La Belle Époque".
Biedermeier - The Comfortable Style
An overview of Biedermeier furniture (1815-1850).
II. The Bauhaus School - Design and Architecture
As we continue to celebrate its founding in Weimar in 1919, the Bauhaus School has left its impact on nearly every aspect of 20th century life, from our houses to our manufacturing processes.
I. The Bauhaus School, Weimar, 1919
Probably the most influential design and architectural movement since the Renaissance, the Bauhaus School has impacted virtually every area of functional living in the 20th century. A chronological history beginning with its founding in Weimar 80 years ago.
Frankoma pottery is considered by many to be America's foremost earthenware and has become very collectible. Learn about its origin and the reasons for its popularity.
A Brief History of Colonial America’s Society & Culture
Colonial American Society: the rise of the free press, public education, political structure, and religious tolerance in the Age of Enlightenment.
Sir William Johnson, Baronet (1715-1774)
Biography of the consummate gentleman of the Age of Enlightenment, Sir William Johnson (1715-1774).
18th Century American Furniture Styles
The furniture styles of the 18th Century were a reflection of the changing world at the time and were considered more as an art than a craft.
Marche au Puce - The French Flea Markets
The original Flea Market, Marchè au Puce, is in Paris.
Collecting 20th century pottery should include some fine women designers and potters, including Clarice Cliff, Charlotte Rhead, and of course, Susie Cooper.
Tips and guidelines for maintaining and restoring antiques.
"Happiness is an Antique Show!" -Part III
Part III and final article on doing antiques shows for the novice, with websites listing upcoming shows in US and Canada.
"Happiness is an Antiques Show" Part II
Second part in series on participating in antiques shows, with tips for buyers and dealers.
"Happiness is an Antique Show" Part I
A dealer's perspective on antiques shows, with tips for buyers.
BBC's popular TV show is broadcast this week by HGTV-reviewed here.
Description and websites featuring Waterford Crystal, Belleek China, and Irish linens.
An introduction to numismatics on the Web, the best sites for collectors!
An overview of McCoy pottery, its history, and items to look for when purchasing.
A lovely legacy of the China Trade, Chinese Export Porcelain is highly collectible and beautiful to own.
Reviews and directories of collectors' clubs in US and abroad.
The history and workmanship of the Roycroft Community (1895-1938).
Last Minute Holiday Gifts for the Collector
Take advantage of the Web to finish your last-minute holiday shopping for the collectors on your list!
A layman's overview of the Arts & Crafts Movement, one of today's hottest collecting trends.
An American Thanksgiving Through theYears
Learn about the context of your antiques and enjoy a special Thanksgiving experience by visiting a Living History Museum near you!
Buyer Beware! Part II: Fakes and Reproductions
Buyer Beware!-Part II: Fakes and Reproductions
First of two-part series on Internet fraud, fakes and reproductions.
So You've Caught the Collecting Bug!