How to Get Pottery Appraised
To get pottery appraised, it is important to find an appraiser who is knowledgeable about art pottery and aware of current market prices.
Online appraisals are commonly conducted for individual pieces or collections.
Researching the value of pottery online is recommended, where you can look up past auction results on eBay to find similar examples.
It is important to only consider items that have actually sold, as asking prices can be higher than the actual selling price.
Checking the condition of the pottery is also important, as damage can significantly impact its value.
Selling the pottery through an auction is another way to determine its current value, as competitive bidding will determine the price.
Price guides are not recommended as they tend to be outdated.
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Did You Know?
1. An ancient Chinese pottery piece, known as the “Chicken Cup,” holds the record for the highest price ever paid for a ceramic object at auction, selling for a staggering $36.3 million in 2014.
2. The process of appraising pottery involves a technique called thermoluminescence, which measures the amount of radiation the pottery has absorbed over time. This helps determine its age and authenticity.
3. One of the earliest known forms of pottery, the “Beakers,” were used by the Neolithic people of Central Europe around 5000 BC. They were primarily used for storing and drinking liquids.
4. The term “kaolin” used to describe the pure white clay used in porcelain production is derived from the Chinese word “gaoling,” meaning “high ridge” or “lofty mountains.” This reflects the geographical origin of china clay, which was first discovered in China.
5. The art of pottery appraisal often involves assessing the craftsmanship and technique used to create a piece. For example, when examining a glazed pottery item, the evaluator may consider factors such as the quality of the glaze application, depth of color, and any distinct patterns or designs.
Online Pottery Appraisals
Determining the value of art pottery can be a daunting task, but online pottery appraisals have become a popular option. Whether you have an individual piece or an entire collection, online appraisals can provide valuable insights into the worth of your pottery. This method is especially beneficial for those who may have limited access to local appraisers or prefer the convenience of appraising from the comfort of their homes.
However, it is crucial to find an appraiser who is knowledgeable about art pottery and well-informed about current market prices. The value of art pottery can often experience frequent and significant price swings, and an appraiser with expertise in the field will be better equipped to provide an accurate assessment. Without such knowledge, there is a risk of receiving inaccurate valuations that do not reflect the true worth of your pottery.
To illustrate this point, consider a client who sought an appraisal for an inherited estate that included a collection of art pottery. The appraiser lacked extensive experience with art pottery and paid little attention to the condition of the pieces. Consequently, the appraised values turned out to be much higher than the actual selling prices. This example emphasizes the importance of finding a qualified appraiser who can provide an accurate valuation of your art pottery.
Key points:
- Online pottery appraisals are a popular option for determining the value of art pottery.
- Find an appraiser who is knowledgeable about art pottery and well-informed about current market prices.
- The value of art pottery can experience frequent and significant price swings.
- Without expertise in art pottery, there is a risk of receiving inaccurate valuations.
- Consider the experience and attention to detail of the appraiser to ensure accurate valuations.
Finding A Knowledgeable Appraiser
When it comes to appraising art pottery, it is essential to choose an appraiser who specializes in this specific field. Art pottery holds its unique set of characteristics and features, and an appraiser with general knowledge of art and antiques might not possess the expertise needed to accurately assess its value. Look for appraisers who have a deep understanding of the different styles, glazes, and potteries associated with art pottery.
Furthermore, appraisers must also be up-to-date with current market trends and prices. The value of art pottery can be volatile, and what may have been highly sought-after yesterday might not hold the same value today. By choosing an appraiser who stays informed about the ever-changing market, you can have confidence in the accuracy of the appraisal you receive.
Taking the time to research and find a knowledgeable appraiser can save you from the pitfalls of inaccurate valuations and the possibility of overpaying for an appraisal that does not reflect the true value of your cherished art pottery collection.
- Choose an appraiser who specializes in art pottery.
- Look for appraisers with a deep understanding of different styles, glazes, and potteries.
- Ensure the appraiser is up-to-date with current market trends and prices.
Importance Of Researching Pottery Values
Before getting your art pottery appraised, it is beneficial to conduct your own research to gain a preliminary understanding of its potential value. The internet offers a vast array of resources that can assist you in this process. One recommended approach is to search for past auction results on platforms such as eBay.
By researching past auction results, you can find comparable examples and assess their selling prices. It is crucial to examine items that have actually been sold, as asking prices may not accurately reflect the true market value. In addition to sales prices, pay close attention to the condition descriptions of the pottery. Damaged items typically have a significantly lower value compared to mint examples. Generally, damaged pottery is valued at 50-75% less than its pristine counterparts.
Another method for determining the value of your pottery is to consider selling it through an auction. Auctions provide a platform for competitive bidding, allowing the market to determine the price. Popular online auction platforms that specialize in art pottery include eBay, artpotteryplace.com, and Just Art Pottery Auctions. By observing the bids and final selling prices of similar pieces, you can gain insights into the current market value of your pottery.
It is important to note that relying solely on price guides may not lead to accurate valuations. The variability in prices for art pottery and the outdated nature of many price guides render them unreliable sources. Therefore, it is advisable to use online research and auction results as a more reliable means of assessing the value of your art pottery.
Using Quality Digital Photography
When seeking online pottery appraisals, the quality of your photographs plays a significant role in the accuracy of the appraisal. Providing clear and detailed images of your art pottery will help the appraiser to precisely evaluate its condition, glazes, and other crucial aspects that impact its value.
To effectively capture your pottery, consider the following tips:
- Use a high-resolution digital camera or smartphone with a good camera quality.
- Ensure adequate lighting to highlight the details and colors of the pottery.
- Photograph the pottery from different angles to provide a comprehensive view.
- Capture close-up shots of any signatures, markings, or unique features.
- Avoid any distracting backgrounds or objects that may divert attention from the pottery itself.
By adhering to these suggestions, you can present your pottery in the best possible light, facilitating a more accurate assessment by the appraiser.
Fluctuating Prices For Art Pottery
When delving into the world of art pottery, it is crucial to recognize that prices for such items can experience fluctuations and may not necessarily follow a consistent upward trajectory. The ever-changing nature of the market, trends, and collectors’ preferences can impact the value of art pottery.
Understanding these fluctuations is important because it helps set realistic expectations. Art pottery that was highly sought-after a few years ago may not command the same value at present. Conversely, a previously underappreciated style or pottery artist may have gained recognition, resulting in a substantial increase in value. By staying informed about current market trends and prices, you can make more informed decisions regarding the value of your art pottery.
Choosing An Experienced Appraiser
To ensure accurate appraisal results for your art pottery, it is paramount to choose an appraiser who possesses substantial experience and expertise in the field. An experienced appraiser will have a deep understanding of different art pottery styles, pottery artists, glazes, and the factors that impact value.
By selecting an appraiser with a specific focus on art pottery, you can have confidence in their ability to provide accurate valuations and insights. Their knowledge of current market prices will help guide you toward understanding the true worth of your pottery, allowing you to make informed decisions regarding its potential sale, insurance, estate planning, or probate.
It is advisable to seek recommendations from trusted sources who have had their art pottery appraised before. However, conducting independent research to assess an appraiser’s credentials, reputation, and client feedback is also crucial. Remember, choosing an expert appraiser is the key to obtaining accurate and reliable evaluations for your art pottery collection.
Now armed with these valuable tips and insights, you can confidently navigate the process of getting your art pottery appraised. By utilizing online resources, researching market values, and selecting an experienced appraiser, you can obtain accurate valuations that reflect the true worth of your prized pottery collection.
- Choose an appraiser with substantial experience in art pottery
- Look for an appraiser with a specific focus on art pottery
- Seek recommendations from trusted sources
- Conduct independent research on an appraiser’s credentials, reputation, and client feedback
- Utilize online resources and research market values for accurate valuations
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find out if my pottery is valuable?
Another method to find out if your pottery is valuable is by consulting an appraiser or art expert who specializes in pottery. They can evaluate your piece based on various factors such as the artist, age, condition, and rarity, providing you with an estimation of its value. Additionally, you can research online databases, collector forums, or join pottery-focused communities to gather information and insights from fellow enthusiasts, which can help in assessing the potential value of your pottery.
How do you authenticate pottery?
In order to authenticate pottery, several key factors should be considered. Firstly, the material and technique used to create the piece must be examined, as they can provide valuable clues about its authenticity. Secondly, analyzing the shape, decoration, and glaze of the pottery can help establish its time period and place of production. However, the most crucial aspect of authentication lies in scrutinizing the markings on the pottery, as they can provide vital insights into its origin and verify its antiquity. By carefully evaluating these elements, experts can confidently determine the authenticity of pottery.
How do I sell valuable pottery?
Selling valuable pottery can be done in various ways. One option is approaching local stores, such as coffee shops, markets, and furniture stores, that are interested in selling unique pottery pieces as part of their decor or inventory. By discussing the possibility of selling your pottery with these stores, you can negotiate deals where they sell your pieces on commission. This allows you to showcase your work to a wider audience and potentially reach customers who appreciate and are willing to pay a premium for valuable pottery.
Another option is to participate in pottery exhibitions or craft fairs. These events attract individuals who are specifically interested in handmade and artisanal items, including pottery. By showcasing your pottery at these events, you can directly engage with potential buyers, explain the unique features of your pieces, and successfully sell them to those who appreciate the value and craftsmanship of your work. Additionally, online platforms and marketplaces dedicated to handmade or vintage items can also be great avenues to sell your valuable pottery to a wider audience.
How do you identify a pottery artist?
To identify a pottery artist, one can look for the artist’s signature in the form of a monogram. These monograms typically consist of the artist’s first name, surname, and possibly their middle name initials, represented by one, two, or three letters. By examining the pottery carefully and deciphering the monogram, one can unveil the identity of the skilled ceramist behind the artwork. The use of monograms offers a unique and artistic way for pottery artists to leave their mark, while also sparking curiosity and creating an air of mystery around their creations.
