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Discover Mid-America — November 2007
It could be a Shaker
Q. This child’s highchair has been in my family since 1903 — Original finish and no tray. I am interested in the history since the carving on the back looks like an old English “court jester.” We think it is oak and would like a value. —K. T., Kittanning, PA
A. Your highchair is known as pressed back and is oak. There were many different designs pressed into the chairs and tables. The most elaborate highchairs can sell for $500 complete in a shop. Highchairs similar to yours sell for around $150 in shops.
Q. I inherited this marble statue originally purchased at a Mellan estate auction. It is a white marble bust, 22” high. On the back it says, “A Pizza Carrara.” The marble pedestal is 39” high. What is the value? —A.R., Kittanning, PA
A. Your charming bust of a young woman was made around the late 19th century and then were found in the homes of the wealthy. It could sell at auction for $5,000 or more.
Q. We believe this side chair that belonged to our mom is a Shaker. What do you think? —E.H., Kansas City, MO
A. Your chair has all of the clues that define a Shaker chair. It appears to have a hickory splint seat, which would date it before 1830. It also has parallel “score lines” marking location of slats and rungs. The round finial identified the colony where it was made. It could sell at auction for several thousand dollars if authentic. It needs hands on examination.
Q. I have a match case that has advertising for a jeweler/watchmaker in Albury, Australia. The watch was made in Newark, NJ by “The Whitehead and Hoag (or Boag) Co.” What is the value? —T.A., Valentine, Australia
A. The Whitehead and Hoag Co., opened in Newark, NJ in 1892. It became world renown for its novelties, originally made in celluloid. While you didn’t say from your photo your watch safe is made of celluloid and metals. It would be of interest to collectors of advertising objects and watch safes. A shop price could be from $200 up. Historically, the company made the tokens for the New York subway opening.
Q. I found this vase in a shop a few weeks ago and can’t find out anything about age, maker or value. It is 12” high in mint condition and has an oriental signature on the bottom. How can I find out more? —J.J., GA
A. Your pottery vase was made mid-20th century by the Fukagawa factory in Japan, and is known as Fukagawa Seiji. The designs combine traditional Japanese motifs with Western style design elements. It probably had a paper label. Check out eBay where many are listed for sale.
Q. This covered berry dish by Derby silver, quadruple plate, has a glass liner and is engraved with an “s.” Please let me know value. —C.F., Kansas City, MO
A. In original and good condition it could sell in a shop for $200 or more.
Q. This fireplace mantel is in a home built in 1899-1900. It is marble with decorative inlays. I was told it could be of some value. I would appreciate your input. —B.J.F., New Kensington, PA
A. Your mantel is classified as an architectural antique and very desirable. Similar pieces have sold for over $5,000 at auction. You might want to send photos to Red Baron Auctions, Atlanta, GA 30328
Q. I have a collection of Norman Rockwell plates in original boxes. I wish to sell them and need the address of the Bradford exchange. —C.P., Branchburg, NJ
A. You can talk to a sales representative at 1-800-323-8078. Have the names of your plates ready. Or write to them at 9333 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago, ILL 60714.
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