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Form vs function: Debate surfaces over teapot

Antiques & Collecting

Would you put a teapot like this one on a display shelf or on the table? Many modern studio ceramics could go either way.

By Terry and Kim Kovel

Artists of all levels, critics and admirers alike have long wondered: What is art? Collectors of ceramics face a slightly more specific question: What is art pottery? To a collector, the term “art pottery” usually refers to a kind of pottery made in the U.S. from about 1870 to 1930. This kind of pottery usually consists of hand-thrown, hand-decorated vessels with innovative glazes.

The best-known pieces are often items like vases or jardinieres; in other words, decorative pieces. That is often the defining quality of art: It is meant to be decorative rather than functional. But many artists, especially the studio potters of the mid-20th century onward, believe the two options aren’t mutually exclusive.

Take this teapot by contemporary ceramicist Paul Heroux, which sold at Thomaston Place Auction Galleries for $250. It’s an interesting-looking teapot with its organic, slightly distorted shapes and striking yellow and brown glaze, but it is exactly that: a teapot, not a sculpture of a teapot. A 2010 profile by a student at Bates College in Lewiston, Maine, where Heroux taught at the time, quotes him as saying he wants his work to be both decorative and useful; that he “would love it” if his ceramics were used as tableware. In this case, the question “Is it a teapot or a work of art?” could be answered with “Yes.”

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Q: I have an antique curio cabinet, Windsor chairs I was told are from the 1800s, a few pieces of china and some signed photos of Mae West, Andy Williams and a few others. Also, some rock ‘n roll programs from shows from the 1950s and 1960s. I would like to know how to go about finding a credible antique dealer or appraiser who would come to my home and give information on these items and their value. I do not know what questions to ask or how to make sure they are qualified, creditable, if they should be licensed, etc. Can you help me in this matter?

A: There are three major professional associations for appraisers: The American Society of Appraisers (ASA), the Appraisers Association of America (AAA) and the International Society of Appraisers (ISA). They can help you find appraisers in your area. Before you hire an appraiser, ask about their experience, training, background and whether they belong to any appraisal associations. There is no national accreditation for antiques appraisers, but there are many certification programs. The Asheford Institute of Antiques is especially well respected. Tell a prospective appraiser how many antiques you want appraised and if you want a written or oral appraiser, and ask what rates they charge. Appraisals are expensive. Legitimate appraisers charge hourly rates, which can include time spent on research and travel. Beware of antiques dealers who offer free appraisals or who charge based on the value of your items. They are often trying to buy antiques and the lowest possible price and will undervalue yours. Often, the best way to evaluate a prospective appraiser is to ask for (and check) references and to look up reviews.

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Q: I need identification and approximate pricing on a small silver nutmeg grinder shaped like a Classical urn.

A: Nutmeg was used in Europe since the Middle Ages, when it was believed to have medicinal properties. By the 17th century, it was used as a flavoring. This is when nutmeg graters or grinders first became popular.

The silver nutmeg graters that are collected today are usually from the late 18th to 19th centuries. They were a popular accessory, made by many silversmiths in various decorative shapes. Depending on their condition, maker, age and rarity of the shape, they can sell anywhere from about $400 to over $1,000. Check yours for the maker’s hallmarks. You can look up silver hallmarks on sites like Kovels.com or the Online Encyclopedia of Silver Marks at www.925-1000.com. Books on antique silver or Victorian silver pieces may help you identify your nutmeg grinder. Look for “Silver Novelties in the Gilded Age, 1870-1810” by Deborah Crosby (Schiffer, 2001), “Antique Silver by Ian Pickford” (Antique Collector’s Club, 2007) or “Collecting Small Silverware” by Stephen Helliwell (Phaidon/Christie’s, 1998). There is a website for collectors of nutmeg graters, nutmeggraters.com, that may have additional resources.rs and check for seepage.

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CURRENT PRICES

Current prices are recorded from antiques shows, flea markets, sales and auctions throughout the United States. Prices vary in different locations because of local economic conditions.

Railroad, lantern, New York, New Haven & Hartford RR, iron, single lens, top handle, signed, Peter Gray, Boston, late 1800s, 13 1/2 inches, $75.

Toy, playset, Mystery Space Ship, moon base, figures, cars, instructions, gyro-powered, box, Marx, $155.

Pottery-midcentury, bowl, blue-green glaze, incised crossing lines, rounded square opening, round foot, signed, Vivika & Otto Heino, 4 x 5 1/2 inches, $200.

Toy, elephant, Jumbo, painted, short trunk, saddle, string tail, on rolling platform, stenciled, Jumbo Peanut Butter, 13 x 16 inches, $215.

Fenton, coin dot, decanter, stopper, cranberry opalescent, enamel flowers, ruffled rim, clear handle, gilt overlay, 8 inches, $315.

Starting at $4.38/week.

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