Q: Thanks on your weekly column in our native Gainesville Solar and for contemplating our “attic” piece. A few years in the past, we acquired the pictured kid’s highchair/stroller/curler at a storage sale. It got here with no historical past by any means. We used it as an ornamental piece for a time, nevertheless it has been within the attic for years. I can not discover any identification on the wooden or metallic components. It’s absolutely practical and fascinating, however we judged it not protected for precise little one use. Does it have any worth to a collector or seller? Thanks on your consideration. — T.B., Web
A: The convertible highchair appears ok for use. Each the tray and caning appear to be unique. The end seems to be unique as nicely and, sooner or later, will doubtless affect market worth. The pressed wooden ornament on the backrest is Artwork Nouveau, circa Eighteen Nineties. The wooden seems to be oak. I feel it was made in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and certain marketed by means of mail-order catalogs like Sears & Roebuck and Montgomery Wards. Potential greenback worth is under $500.
Q: I used to be lately gifted some knives. I consider they’re from the Center East. The Gurkha knife is stamped “NEPAL 1996.” Please let me know if any collectors who could be concerned about them. — C.Ok., Web
A: Your knives are of little to no curiosity to critical collectors, leaving potential greenback worth very low or, as I usually say, catch as catch can. Knives like those you have got are available on the Web. Maybe yow will discover a purchaser there; simply do a Google seek for “Gurkha knives.” Good luck.
Q: I’ve an aluminum bowl that has a satin end and a raised floral sample on it. It’s 8 inches throughout, and on the underside it reads, “Farber & Shlevin Inc., Hand Wrought, 1701.” My mother and father acquired it within the Nineteen Fifties as a housewarming reward. Is there something you’ll be able to inform me about its historical past and worth? — Z.H., Web
A: Throughout the late twentieth century there was appreciable collector curiosity in aluminum family wares. Presently the curiosity has all however disappeared, making most items promote on the cut price degree. Now shouldn’t be a very good time to promote your aluminum bowl.
It’s doubtless market curiosity for classic aluminum will return sooner or later. Nonetheless, at present it’s a enjoyable purchaser’s market. So, now could be the time to purchase one of the best items whereas the market is low.
— John Sikorski, with greater than 35 years of expertise, is an Ocala-based antiques advisor, advisor and dealer. Ship your inquiries to Sikorski’s Attic, c/o The Ocala Star-Banner, 2121 SW nineteenth Ave. Highway, Ocala, FL 34471-7752, or e-mail [email protected]
