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Auction Fever |
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by
Martha Pool
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The South has
long been a Mecca for fine antiques, with a large number of reputable dealers
offering an impressive selection of vintage treasures. Frequently overlooked
is the plethora of antique auctions just a leisurely drive from the northshore
– suited to fit every budget and buyer, whether private collector,
interior designer, or antique dealer. As a veteran auction junkie, I highly recommend the experience. For the uninitiated, a few pointers will help familiarize you with the process. One of the first rules of auction-going is to attend the preview before the sale. This affords potential buyers the opportunity to closely examine the items offered and helps to reduce impulse buying. The standard applied to items sold at auction is “as is, where is.” While auctioneers may point out any known defects in a particular piece, the buyer assumes full responsibility for the condition of the item when purchased. Avoid “buyer’s regret” by allowing sufficient time to inspect the items you may be interested in and determine the most you are willing to pay. If you are unable to attend the preview, arrive at the auction as early as possible to review the sale. Before the actual auction begins, register to receive a card with a bidder number for use throughout the sale. While it costs absolutely nothing to walk through the door of an auction house, eventually you are bound to get swept up in the bidding frenzy and excitedly raise your card in hopes of capturing a greatly desired objet d’art or an exquisitely crafted piece of fine furniture. Many times, the price of a particular piece will seem either very low or very high. The price depends on how much interest there is. If two or more people are determined to buy the same item or lot, which can include one or more items, it may sell for much more than its usual value. In the end, a piece is only worth what someone is prepared to pay, resulting in a wide variation in prices. Most auction houses require that buyers pay an additional premium, usually 10-15 percent of the sale price, as well as sales tax, so be sure to familiarize yourself with the house rules and allow for any additional amount to be added to the cost of the piece. If you are high bidder on a particular lot, the auctioneer will signal to you and pronounce the item SOLD! The auction staff documents the item with your bidder number so that, at the end of the auction, all of your purchases will be itemized when you check out. Much of the fun comes in learning about different periods and styles of antiques and uncovering the provenance or origin of a piece. Some auction houses, such as New Orleans Auction Galleries, Inc. and Neal Auction Company in New Orleans, offer a full-color catalog containing photographs with lot numbers and detailed descriptions, including auction estimates. A valuable reference tool, the catalogs are available online and can also be purchased by subscription or during the preview. New Orleans Auction Galleries, Inc. is a well-known source for quality American, English and Continental antiques. The property regularly offered ranges from 18th and 19th century furniture, paintings, silver, porcelains, lighting, garden ornaments and jewelry to 20th century Art Deco items and contemporary art. Neal Auction Company is located in the heart of New Orleans’ prominent Uptown neighborhood, its 20-year history boasting record prices for American furniture, paintings, Newcomb College pottery, silver and decorative arts. Among the offerings from a recent sale at Houmas House Plantation was a late-18th century inlaid mahogany armoire that sold for $137,500 and a mid-19th century etched and blown glass flycatcher that realized $9,775. Don’t be intimidated – there are many options for the more moderate budget. On alternate Friday nights, auctions are held at nearby Southern Heirs Auction in Walker and Country Auction in Zachary. For Southern Heirs auctioneer Tony Achord, the auction business is a family affair. Following in his father’s footsteps, Achord now has 20 years of experience; his auction features mostly American antiques, with some European and Continental offerings. Southern Heirs offers multiple dining and bedroom sets, chests, servers and smaller decorative items, as well as extensive selections of vintage glassware. Extra care is taken to insure that furniture pieces are in good condition and ready to be placed in a home or shop. Tommy and Theresa Oliver, owners of Country Auction in Zachary, have been in the auction business for 13 years. As reflected in the name, the Olivers conduct their auctions in a relaxed atmosphere, with merchandise offered from northeastern, as well as local, estates. The auction begins with an outdoor sale, where a wide assortment of box lots, primitives and furniture for the fixer-upper is available. The sale then moves inside to a more comfortable setting, with antiques and collectables that include Victorian, Eastlake, Empire, Depression and other styles. For those seeking an opportunity to sell – whether an entire estate or a few special antiques – auctions can be a profitable solution. For a specified commission rate, the auction company will organize an estate, promote the sale and conduct the auction, either on-site or at the auction company location. To sell a few items, arrangements can be made to have them picked up and transported to the auction company in preparation for an upcoming sale. The next time you’re looking for an exciting, out-of-the-ordinary excursion, head out to one of the many auction companies that can be found nearby. Beware, though, of impending danger – auction fever is highly contagious!
Copyright 2003-2006, M&L Publishing, all rights reserved. |
Some of the many antique auctions that can be found locally, or within a few hours' drive of the northshore, are listed below. Check websites for information; call to confirm dates and location. Auction
Louisianne, Inc. Country
Auction European
Antique Auction Gallery Hunt
Gallery JDL
Auctions M.
Clayton Brown Inc. Neal
Auction Company New
Orleans Auction Galleries, Inc. New
Orleans Auction St. Charles Gallery, Inc. River
City Antiques & Auction Service Southern
Heirs Auction Co. Top
Drawer Auction & Appraisal Co. |
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