What a tour! The object I remember the most from this summer's Antiques Roadshow tour was a child’s inlaid folk art chest that I filmed in San Antonio. The lady had come there all the way from Oklahoma. It had descended in her family and was dated 1881. It was perfectly proportioned with lots of bone inlay in geometric shapes and hearts—always a winner for collectors.
But there were interesting things in all the cities. The most surprising stop was at Winterthur Museum in Delaware where I worked the decorative arts and silver table. Everyone at my table found something to film! I was amazed at how many wonderful things came through. My favorite thing I saw that day was a mixed metals salt cellar from Tiffany. Since everyone at our table had filmed I took this to Arlie Sulka who specializes in Tiffany items - I can’t wait to watch her appraisal when it airs!
Another surprise was during the filming of an antique whirly-gig. I told the owner that the item would sell for $2,000-$3,000 (he had only paid $5) retail and his reply was “Well, I find that hard to believe!” That was my first moment being speechless on camera! As always, the best part about doing Roadshow is getting to talk to all the people that bring their items to the show. Thanks to everybody that made it out!
Image credits: Antiques Roadshow, Antiques Magazine, and Travis Landry
