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Discover Mid-America — September 2004

Is it porcelain?

Q. I think this painting of a country landscape with horses could have been done by Carolus-Duran (1838-1917). Enclosed is some information about him. Can you help? J.L.T. - Hawkinsville, GA

A. According to your enclosed information about the artist, he was known for formal “society” portraits, and in his later years became interested in impressionist art. He didn’t do landscapes. Your painting more closely resembles late 19th century pastoral scenes done by English painters. It needs to be looked at by an expert in 19th century English paintings. Identifying the signature can make the difference of thousands of dollars.

Q. My husband brought this piece that I think could be a brass letter opener back from Karachi after World War 11. What is it and is it worth anything? S.M. - Bridgewater, NJ

A. You didn’t give any measurements. However, I think it could be a dagger worth several hundred dollars.

Q. The enclosed photo is of a pair of porcelain statuettes I inherited. They are 11 inches high. Can you identify and evaluate them? R.H.M, - Staten Island, NY

A. Wish you had mentioned any maker’s marks. However, they are probably French, late 19th century and tinted bisque rather than porcelain. Chances are they could be reproductions, made in the early part of the 20th century; 19th century examples sell at auction for $400 a pair and up.

Q. Please take a look at this Royal Worcester vase. It has a crowned medal mark on the bottom with the number “51”. Inside a rectangle is marked RN60366 and another square with RN 73823. It is signed CR. There is the letter V beneath the medal. Can you tell me age and value? T.J. - Staten Island, NY

A. Your vase was made in 1883, with the V representing the date mark, according to the Worcester dating system. The firm was known as the Worcester Porcelain Company, when the word “Royal” was added to the circular medal. Your beautiful vase could sell in a shop, since it is artist signed, for over $1,000.

Q. I received this porcelain statue of a seated, Oriental many years ago. The head and arms move when you touch them. What is it and does it have value? B.N.H. - Tarentum, PA

A. You have a bisque “nodder” made in the late 19th century. They have sold at auction for $500 or more.

Q. We purchased this 9 1/2” tall ceramic pitcher and six glasses at an antique store, but have been unable to find out anything about the Sterling Porcelain Company trademark (drawing enclosed). Can you tell me anything about origin and value? H.S. - LaVista, NE

A. The Sterling porcelain Co. was founded in East Liverpool, OH in the late 19th century. Over the years it changed its trademark. You have a lemonade set dating around the turn of the century. It could sell in a shop for $200 or more.

Q. Please tell me about this Tiffany & Co. marked footed silver dish, 8 inches diameter, 2 3/4” high. How much is it worth and where can I sell it? B.C. –Highland Park, IL

A. Many factors determine the value of a Tiffany piece, among them the pattern. Hire a professional appraiser to research pattern and value. Send it to Sotheby’s or one of the Chicago auction houses. Be sure to tell the appraiser you want auction value. Should you put it at auction have a reserve (the price below which it can’t be sold). The auction house will send you an estimated value.

Q. I am intrigued by this porcelain hanging vase (three holes on shoulder). My brother bought it for 25 cents at an estate sale in Cape Cod. It probably is from China and is in cartoon style. It is 8 1/2 “ high. Any ideas? M.F. - Skokie, IL

A. You have a Chinese Export hanging vase, early 19th century, depicting a Chinese legend. It could sell at auction for $1,500 and up. Send photo to Christie’s, Attn: Chinese Export Art Expert, 20 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10020

Send your question about your favorite antique to
THE ANTIQUE DETECTIVE,
c/o Discover Mid-America
104 E. 5th St.
Kansas City, MO 64106

Email: editor@discoverypub.com

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