Collecting art pottery
Dip into the decorative world of late 19th and early 20th- century British art pottery
SUCCESS AT AUCTION
CHECK CONDITION
With ceramics, condition is key to value, which matters if you’re buying for investment as well as pleasure, so check for any damage or restoration on ceramics before you buy. There is a caveat to that rule, though, says Michael Je ery at Woolley & Wallis: ‘If something is rare, keen collectors are prepared to accept a little damage.’ So if you have a treasure at home you’d like to sell at auction, but it has a chip or a crack, don’t let that put you o having it valued – it could fetch more than you think.
BUYING FOR INVESTMENT
To start a serious collection of art pottery to use as a possible nest egg later on, buy the bestquality pieces you can a ord. Although it may seem hard to part with a large sum for just one item, the general rule followed by top dealers is that one high- quality and/or rare ceramic will hold its value better than several run- of-themill buys. Also, look for provenance – an item that has been part of a top collection, or that was owned by a notable person, will be worth more because of that back story.
KNOW YOUR POTTERY
While many ceramics up for sale at auction are bought sight unseen via internet bidding, it
pays to understand the scale and proportions of the item you’re bidding on. Check both the measurements of the piece and of your intended display shelf.
EYES ON THE PRIZE
One of the best ways of getting your eye in is by visiting antiques fairs and browsing the variety of wares on sale. Handle the ceramics and look up close – and don’t be afraid to ask questions.