Tips and Resources for Appraising Chinese Artwork and Antiques
If you own Chinese antiques and are curious about their value, it’s essential to consult a Chinese antiques expert who can help you determine their worth. These objects, ranging from porcelain vases and bowls to jade carvings and furniture, are highly sought-after by collectors and enthusiasts worldwide. In this article, we will explore some tips and resources for appraising Chinese artwork and antiques.
#1. Understanding What Makes Your Antique Valuable
Several factors go into determining the value of a particular piece, including its age, condition, materials used, and intricacy of detail. Some pieces are more rare than others and, as such, are more valuable. Estimating the value of a Chinese antique is a complex process that requires specialized knowledge. For example, the age of a Chinese porcelain piece can be determined by the colors used in its creation. However, excessive signs of aging can be a sign of forgery, making the value of your Chinese antique a complicated question to answer.
#2. Using an Expert for Chinese Art Appraisals
Whether you plan to sell Chinese antiques online or spot a piece at an antique shop, it’s always a good idea to look for Asian antique appraisers who can help you determine the actual value of the piece. A well-trained expert has detailed knowledge of Chinese history and artwork, allowing them to accurately determine your antiques’ origins, age, and value. They also understand the market and the legal details of selling one valuable piece or a whole collection. Chinese antique buyers rely on expert Chinese art appraisals to determine if they are paying the right price.
#3. Finding Asian Antique Appraisers on the Internet
The internet is a useful tool for searching for Asian antique appraisers. Premier auction houses like Sotheby’s are guaranteed to have experts in Chinese art who can accurately appraise your Chinese antiques. Smaller auction houses might or might not have such an expert. Knowing the appraiser’s background before you have them look at your antique is always a good idea. Be sure that they specialize in Asian and Chinese artwork and antiques. Compare the prices for appraisals and auctioning or selling your piece with what other appraisers charge. Once you have done your homework, you can be confident that they will do theirs when you have them appraise the value of Chinese antiques.
#4. Other Resources for Chinese Art Appraisals
While it is crucial to consult an expert on the value of your Chinese antiques, other resources can help you. Books available at your local library, at bookstores, and on Amazon provide comprehensive price lists for Chinese antiques. There are also a variety of websites that will help you research the value of your piece. Thanks to the internet, it is easier to find out the value of your Chinese antiques.