One of my favorite antiquing experience was over ten years ago, I went to visit an antique dealer's attic. It was a dream come true. Attics are usually dark, this one was no exception. In my excitement to get there, I parked my car in a haste and ran to her home. When we went into the attic I realized I had my prescription sunglasses on, and that I had left my glasses in the car several thousand blocks away. Never mind I can see I said.
First lesson when buying antiques:
See with your heart. Because at the end of the day the piece you buy share who you are, and either will create the ambiance of your home or tell your clients about your aesthetics.
Boxes upon boxes, stacks of stuff, cramped everywhere. I nearly peed my pants I was that giddy. "Is this the stairway to heaven?" I asked. The dealer was very kind she said, "Take your time, open any box you want. I'll be downstairs."
I pinched myself really hard to make sure I wasn't dreaming. Then I said to her that I that I might end up living in her attic. She said, in that case, she would make some tea.
Lesson number two:
Most people will tell you to hide your feelings. To stay neutral so that you can have more leverage in negotiating a better price. Most people will tell you to point out the flaws in the object, to act like it is too expensive, to pretend you are not that interested.
And that can be true.
And other times, such as this time
it is best to blow those lessons out the nonexisting attic window.
The cardboard treasure boxes held many styles, most of the pieces dated around 1880-1930s. The craftsmanship of many creative hands, that had labored lovingly at their art, started to form mountains around me. Baptismal gowns, table clothes, lace panel curtains, mixed match napkins with monograms, bundles of lace…
Lesson number three:
Buying all of it versus picking out piece by piece usually offers a better deal.
Then in the bottom of one of the boxes, I saw two brown paper parcels. I asked the antique dealer what was inside of them. She said they were books.
"Do you like old books?"
I told her I "liked" everything except anchovies and oysters.
Lesson number four:
Ask questions. Look inside boxes, under the table, and up above. Often the best finds are waiting for you to find them.
Don't be afraid to ask for what you want, and when it comes to you embrace it with open arms.
What lessons do you have to share about antiquing?
Leave a Reply