We're sorry for our recent reticence...work deadlines and trips to 2 sets of Nashville shows (full report coming soon) have kept us very busy.
But as promised in our current column, here is the small-medium-large clip from the movie Role Models. We're not the only ones who think this trend is ridiculous!
If you have a comment or thought on the middle market, let us know via "comment"! We're convinced that the lack of young collectors and the demise of the middle market are inextricably linked. If we want to solve one problem, we're going to have to solve them both, so let's hear your thoughts!
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4 comments:
Well, if it's true that the middle market is down because of a lack of young collectors, i would say its primarily due to auction houses and their misleading (often downright false) descriptions.
Most young folks dont have the time resources to invest in antiques knowledge so rather than get burned, they just stay away.
my2cents
Well, as folks employed by the auction business, we couldn't disagree more. We've had good and bad experiences with auction houses AND dealers, but that's why they call them opinions!
lol, well, i didnt mean to offend anyone, just offering an opinion.
The sad fact is, many (not all) houses use the term "attributed to" on the flimsiest of evidence or worse, they know full well that the object is not an authentic piece.
As an example, last week i inquired about a paint decorated chest by a famous maker so i emailed this.
"This chest is attributed to (famous paint decorator) , how so? Anything else you can tell me?"
And here is the reply i recieved
"This is attributed by style and design only. Unfortunately, that is the only information we have. Thank you for your interest."
Obviously, not all auction houses do this however, if a beginning collector were to buy that chest and discover later that it's not what he/she was led to believe, does anyone think they would ever buy an antique again?
If the antique industry wants new clients, they are going to have to earn them, and the best way IMO to do that is to earn their trust.
James (and all),
We'll post our response to your last comment there. Thanks for discussing!
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