Depression glass is a type of inexpensive, mass-produced glassware that was made primarily in the United States during the Great Depression era, from the 1920s through the early 1940s. It was often given away for free or sold very cheaply—frequently found in cereal boxes, gas station promotions, or movie theater giveaways—as a way to bring some color and brightness into households during hard economic times.
Finding very old glassware—such as antique or vintage pieces from the 18th to early 20th centuries—requires a mix of knowledge, observation skills, and some detective work. Here’s a breakdown of how to find old glassware and what key things to look for:
Beer steins are traditional beer mugs made from a variety of materials—most famously ceramic or stoneware—with lids and ornate decorations. Originally from Germany, beer steins have become popular collectibles due to their craftsmanship, cultural heritage, and artistic value.
Determining whether a Chinese porcelain piece is genuinely old (and how old) can be tricky due to the long history of production and the proliferation of high-quality reproductions. Here’s a guide to help you spot genuine age versus modern copies:
Collecting trinket boxes is a cherished hobby for many, offering a blend of aesthetic pleasure, sentimental value, and historical intrigue. These miniature treasures serve as more than just decorative items; they encapsulate personal memories, cultural heritage, and artistic craftsmanship.
Delftware, also known as Delft pottery, refers to blue and white tin-glazed earthenware traditionally made in Delft, Netherlands, from the 16th century onward. Originally influenced by Chinese porcelain, Delftware evolved into a distinct and iconic Dutch craft, particularly renowned during the 17th and 18th centuries, the Dutch Golden Age.
Capodimonte refers to a distinctive and highly collectible style of porcelain that originated in Naples, Italy in the 18th century. It’s best known for its handcrafted figurines, flowers, and decorative pieces, often marked by a high level of detail and artistry.
Collecting antique and vintage maps is a captivating hobby that combines elements of history, art, and geography. Enthusiasts are drawn to these maps for various reasons:
Inheriting a collection of antique and vintage items can be both exciting and overwhelming. These objects often come with emotional significance, historical value, and potentially financial worth. Whether you’ve inherited them from a family member, a friend, or as part of an estate, you’ll want to approach the situation thoughtfully and strategically. Here’s a comprehensive guide to what you should do if you inherit a large number of antique and vintage items.