Irish Antiques Journal Winter 2009

ANTIQUES journal

issue 2 | winter 2009

irish

What to buy in 2010?

If you want to invest wisely here's your easy answer!

For many purchasers of antiques, 2010 may well turn out to be a year of unique opportunity.

Prices will be more realistic than they have been for years, so it could turn out to be a bumper year for buying wonderful antiques that could in time, hold their value. There are also some signs of upward movements in prices, so this could make next year a time of unique opportunity.

A wide cross-section of dealers from around the country have given their thoughts on what kind of antiques and art people should look out for in 2010. These are not just pieces that are aethetically pleasing and will look good in the home, but will also represent good value for money, and with luck, hold their value.

Magnificent gold Scottish agate bracelet c.1870.

Price: 7,995. (Courtville Antiques)

Pensées from the President.

There has never been a better time than today to buy antiques. While all businesses have gone through some readjustments antiques have been no exception.

There is tremendous value available out there. Top quality items have maintained their value while the middle range items have become extremely buyable and if you are wishing to furnish your house with antiques there is no better time than going out today and buying.

Irish Art has perhaps been one of the great sufferers in price fluctuation. This has been partly due to the fact that many people bought because it was Irish, regardless of quality etc. Some forgot that artists have good days and bad days and fall in and out of fashion.

George Stacpoole is playing his own part in keeping alive the public interest in antiques; he and fellow presenter Niall Mullen are currently preparing for the next series of RTE One's popular antiques show 'The Dealers', due on air early in the New Year.

The PreRaphaelite painters made huge money in their day, fell out of fashion and in the 1950s could be bought for very little money, by the time the 70s came they rose steadily to where they are today. Furniture is always going to hold a reasonable value because it can be both utilitarian and beautiful.

COURTVILLE ANTIQUES, Dublin Grainne Pierse, who runs this long established jewellery shop in the Powerscourt Centre in the heart of Dublin, says that in 2010 people should keep a lookout for antique Scottish agate jewellery.

She explains that when Queen Victoria bought Balmoral in 1848, the seal of approval was stamped on all things Scottish. Jewellery set with different coloured agates quarried in various parts of Scotland became very fashionable. The craftsmanship was of a very high standard in both gold and silver. As an example of this wonderful Scottish jewellery making expertise, Grainne gives an example she has on display in her shop, a gold Scottish agate bracelet (pictured left), circa 1870, with the gold background beautifully chased and set with multi-coloured agates from the Scottish mountains. The piece is priced at €7,995.

Grainne concludes “Gold Scottish jewellery of this quality is rare and is sought after by specialist collectors. It can be bought with confidence, knowing that its quality will never be surpassed.”

Watercolours and prints are perhaps one of the most underestimated areas of collecting. They still can be bought at very modest prices. Silver always seems to hold its value, especially the important pieces and the useful items that can be used today. How much nicer it is to eat with silver cutlery!

Remember that when buying from a recognised dealer like a member of the Irish Antique Dealers Association you are buying with an element of guarantee, as they have a strict code of practice. Most dealers will advise, and often allow you to take things out on trial. Often objects look great in the showroom or auction room but when you take the piece home it can be horror, so ask the dealer if you can try the piece. At auction you have little comeback and you certainly cannot take home to try before you decide. Remember, antiques are green.

George Stacpoole President Irish Antique Dealers Association

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CONNAUGHT ANTIQUES,

DE BURCA RARE BOOKS,

Galway

Dublin

Mark Maguire of Connaught Antiques, firmly believes that even the most modern homes can become the perfect setting for antiques and that this trend will accelerate during 2010. “These antiques, often made from beautiful woods and materials that are rarely used today, will add elegance and focus to any room. In good times and bad times alike, it’s important that people invest in quality rather than quantity. Such pieces are a great addition to the home and at the same time, an excellent investment for the future,” he adds. Mark also suggests that sometimes, to have a maker’s name on an item of furniture can add importance and value to a piece. As one such piece, he suggests a piece that Connaught Antiques was selling recently, an early Victorian pollard oak serving table made by Edwards & Roberts of Wardour Street, London (pictured below). “A piece of furniture like this is not just very visually satisfying and very functional, but a great investment.”

Éamonn de Burca says that the market for high quality books relating to Ireland is still in good shape, despite the recession and that should holdthrough next year.

Really good books aren’t getting any cheaper and are still very much sought after. He says “As always in collecting, go for quality. The prime requisite is condition.

Buy the best books you can afford, but only fine, clean and complete copies. Always aim to buy the rarer items, where supply will always be limited, as they will always be in demand in the future. Then you won’t go far wrong.”

An early Victorian period pollard oak serving table By Edwards and Roberts.

The arched panel back surmounted by a foliate carved cresting, the shaped top with gadrooned edge over one frieze drawer, raised on scroll supports carved in high relief with floral swags, ending in an inverted breakfront shaped platform base, drawers stamped Edwards & Roberts, Wardour Street, London 230cm wide, 144cm high, 73cm deep.

CUBITT JEWELLERY,

One of his favourite books on Ireland,a first edition of Pacata Hibernia, written in English despite its title and published in 1633, sold for almost €10,000. However, lower priced items have been selling noticeably more slowly at book fairs. One area where he advises caution is documents relating to the struggle for Irish independence.

“The market had a very strong run over the past five years, but the impetus went with the collapse of the property boom. I think this area will be quiet for the next few years, although I think it will pick up again as we approach 2016 and the centenary of the Easter Rising.”

Cork Niamh O’Mahony says that the downturn has made people very discerning in searching for best value for money, a trend that will continue through 2010.

She says “If an antique piece is top quality, it has always been a great investment. With the rise in the price of precious metals, antique silver and gold has to be very good value. Gold has been a steady riser for the last few months so stock held by dealers is always a good investment.”

In terms of jewellery she says that women always love it and that a piece of antique jewellery is always very special. Niamh adds that pearls complement everyone who wears them. “The process of culturing pearls is long, sometimes up to 10 years, so you expect them to be very expensive, but there is wonderful value to be had in antique pearls and pearl jewellery.”

She also says “Antique silver is both beautiful and useful in any home. It is hardwearing and has stood the test of time. It’s a wonderful investment as modern silver doesn’t have the beautiful hallmarks and so cannot be identified as antique silver can. Irish silver has always been a favourite with dealers, buyers and collectors and any provincial silver is worth buying as it will always hold its value. Quality will win out every time.”

“ If an antique piece is top quality, it has always been a great investment. With the rise in the price of precious metals, antique silver and gold has to be very good value.”

Éamonn says that there are better prospects in another area where prices have dipped a bit, the publications of the Cuala Press, run for many years by Elizabeth and Lily Yeats, the two sisters of W.B.Yeats and later by his

daughter Anne Yeats. At present, it’s possible to buy really good Cuala books at prices that will look very reasonable in a few years time, but again, the advice is to go for the best copies.

RYAN & SMITH FIREPLACES, Stewartstown,Co Tyrone In terms of fireplaces, Don Ryan predicts that what will sell well during 2010 are pieces that are either difficult to reproduce, or at least, more expensive to produce than the original.

He says that decorative coloured marbles are fashionable, blacks and dark greys in particular, with Bardiglio, Kilkenny and Portoro marble fireplaces standing out on their own.

He says that it is impossible to mistake them for new fireplaces or to compare or confuse them with the horrible white Chinese reproduction fireplaces that

have flooded the country over the past 10 years.

Don adds that 18th century chimney pieces have become very desirable andthat the demand for them in 2009 was better than ever. “The higher the quality the better and if you can attribute them to a particular craftsperson, such as Cheere, Darley or Paine, the more desirable they become.”

He concludes by saying that in the world of antique fireplaces provenance is becoming more important and can add considerable value to a piece, although it’s not essential and can sometimes be impossible to find.

“ The higher the quality the better and if you can attribute them to a particular craftsperson, such as Cheere, Darley or Paine, the more desirable they become.”

H.DANKER, Dublin Joy Danker of the renowned South Anne Street, Dublin, antiques shop that has been trading for close on 70 years says that they find that even though the world is upside down, people, if they are spending money on antiques, want only the very best in quality. “Whatever the size of the piece the emphasis is on design and the quality with which they were made.”

“ Whatever the size of the piece the emphasis is on design and the quality with which they were made.”

(Pictured above) Silver Horse And Jockey Name Place Holders: Cased set of 6 antique silver horse and jockey name place holders. Made in London 1903, by Robert Hosier Halford and Sons. Approx 3 1/4” wide x 1 3/4” high.

(H. Danker. Dublin)

She adds that Irish silver is still very much in demand even though it is more expensive than English silver. “Plenty of people like to have a wonderful piece of silver and they don’t necessarily have to pay a high price for it. These are customers with good taste who are looking for those quality pieces.”

“We also find that people are buying more of the old fashioned jewellery that’s on the market because they appreciate that it’s a better investment. As we all know to our cost stocks and shares have been a disaster, so what’s better than investing in quality antique items that are going to last and last and give a lot of pleasure in the process.”

(Pictured above) Cased Silver Condiment Set: cased antique silver12 piece condiment set. Made in London 1902

by Horace Woodword and Co Ltd. Comprising 4 salts with blue glass liners, 4 mustard pots with blue glass liners and 4 peppers. Octagonal shape on circular bases. With spoons. (H.Danker. Dublin)

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“ I Firmly Believe in Blending the Old with the New! ”

by Norma Rogers, Rogers Antiques

Norma Rogers of Rogers Antiques, Navan, is a great believer in blending the old with the new in 2010 and has just completed an interior design course to help clients achieve this correct balance.

Her tag line has always been “Rogers Antiques, supplying antique furniture in a modern way”.

“I’m one of the youngest antique dealers in the country and this has greatly added to my business by attracting younger generations of investors. The new generation wants affordable investments in quality pieces that they can actually use in their homes” she explains.

Norma adds that there’s a certain incorrect perception that antiques are hugely expensive and only suitable for big houses, but says that this belief is completely untrue. “I’m keen to dispel these notions and offer people very affordable, top quality items that will enhance their homes and keep their value”.

JOHN FARRINGTON, Dublin John Farrington, a leading jewellery specialist, says that there’s still good demand for good quality gemstones and diamonds. Pearl chokers and diamond necklaces are still much sought after and very wearable. He adds “Coloured stones are very much in fashion as people like to choose them to match the colours of the season’s clothes.

This trend will continue through 2010.”

In terms of what’s really selling and representing a solid investment for the future, the best in quality diamonds are much in demand, with emerald cut diamonds continuing to be a good seller. Marquise cut stones are also back in vogue.

Overall, John believes that quality jewellery will hold its value next year and he says that for the right quality the money is there.

GORMLEY’S FINE ART, Dublin, Belfast & Omagh Gormley’s Fine Art galleries are well-known, not just in Dublin, but in Belfast and Omagh.

Norma Rogers of Rogers Antiques

Lorraine Brett,who manages the Dublin gallery has some very timely advice for people considering investing in good quality art during the coming year.

“Gormley’s Fine Art has dedicated the past 20 years to helping, nurturing and developing young talent, selecting artists whose future and creativity we have great faith in.

Recently she was selling a Victorian mahogany circular table with four solid mahogany chairs for less than €3,000 which was very reasonable value. To back up her expertise in antiques, Norma has lots of top tips on her website, advising people on how to best invest in antiques and how to mix the old with the new.

She also offers a wedding service where people can choose antiques as gifts for their new home and in the process start their own collections.

“The service is unique and I expect it to continue growing in popularity during 2010. It enables people to have an antique piece or pieces for their home as they start married life, items that will always hold their value and which will be an addition to the house. At the same time the wedding couple will always know where they got that fabulous gift from”.

If you would like to speak with Norma you can telephone her on (086) 322 7775.

(Pictured above) ‘Still Waters 18’ by Jane Swanston.

Acrylic on canvas. (Gormleys Fine Art)

We always advise buyers to trust their own instincts buy what you like and buy the best example you can afford” she suggests. Lorraine says that artists to watch out for in 2010 include emerging talents such as the sculptor Ian Pollock and the painter Laurence O’Toole, both of whom offer strong works at a competitive market price.

DELL ANTIQUES, Co Dublin Jeff and Roger Dell specialise in the finest furniture, whether Irish, English or French, complemented by many outstanding fireplace accessories. Jeff says that he expects that usable antique furniture will pick up in value during 2010.

He also says that as of now prices have gone as low as they are going to go, so that coming into the New Year will be the perfect time to make the most of the great value available in antique furniture.

(Pictured above) French Ormolu And Marble Mantle Clock. Featuring an ormolu cherub holding a drum with inset clock on a rouge marble base. Late 19th Century – price €2,500. (Dell Antiques, Co Dublin)

(Pictured above) Rare Pair Of Rosewood And Marquetry Corner Cabinets.

English circa 1900 – price €3,950 pair. (Dell Antiques, Co Dublin)

(Pictured above) A Fine Regency Giltwood Convex Mirror, price – €2,500. (Dell Antiques, Co Dublin)

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DONEGAL ANTIQUES & ART GALLERY,

ROGER GRIMES & VANESSA PARKER,

Glencolumbkille, Co Donegal

Mulranny, Co Mayo

Patricia and Rory Byrne are great believers in Belleek ware and consider it not only very pleasing to buy, but something that will well and truly hold its investment value.

has proved very worthwhile for collectors, many of whom start with perhaps a small piece or a cup and saucer. Prices start at a modest €50 and go up to many thousands for the large, rare and unique pieces.”

The Dublin International Exposition of 1865 included an award winning gold medal display from a new factory set beside Lough Erne and over 150 years later the famous Belleek products are among the most sought after examples of fine porcelain and earthenware by collectors all over the world.

Rory points out that the early wares from the first and second periods command premium prices, with their rarity and quality underpinning the strength of the Belleek price index. Demand is constantly pushing prices higher. Adds Rory “Investing in antique Belleek

Roger Grimes asks what could be more pleasurable than buying and looking at books, which have always defied recessions. “They hold their value and in most cases, hold their value.”

One piece that Rory currently recommends is a first period Gladstone pot, small numbers of which were commissioned from the Belleek factory by one of the opponents of Gladstone’s plans for home rule for Ireland.

The registration number of this particular piece shows the year it was made, 1877.

So money on whatever scale put into Belleek is a sound investment for the future, as well as adding an extra decorative dimension to one’s home.

“ Investing in antique Belleek has proved very worthwhile for collectors, many of whom start with perhaps a small piece or a cup and saucer.

Prices start at a modest €50 and go up to many thousands for the large, rare and unique pieces.”

Very Desireable – Irish Fairy Tales By James Stephens.

First Edition.(Roger Grimes & Vanessa Parker, Co Mayo)

Holding a beautifully bound book gives most people pleasure he believes, and advises that people should go for books in fine or good condition, preferably a first edition with a dust jacket if called for, by a well-known author.

It’s also worth seeking out books with illustrations by noted artists such as Arthur Rackham, Harry Clarke, Dulac and Hugh Thomson and children’s books with illustrations by the likes of Margaret Tarrant and Mabel Lucy Attwell.

Books of this calibre will rise in value. Children’s books especially are bought by people in the know to lay down for their grandchildren. They will look good in their bookcases and in due course will become investments for the future.

But as Roger says these aren’t the only books that people can collect. Other subjects can include Irish history, topography, poetry, cookery, gardening, fishing, motoring and even UFOs.

(Pictured above) Gladstone Pot – Belleek 1st Period, 1863-1890 with registration mark for year 1877.

He advises that it is best to get sound advice about pleasurable investments in books from a reputable dealer.

LEINSTER GALLERY,

GEORGE STACPOOLE,

Dublin

Adare

Loretto Meagher very much believes that 2010 will see a swing back to traditional art galleries and a movement away from the flurry of the auction houses.

George Stacpoole, president of the Irish Antique Dealers Association says that antiques are there for generations and that younger people are starting to realise the great value to be had in purchasing items that will last for decades and hold their value.

“Galleries offer a service that is more tailored to individual needs and it’s generally acknowledged that buying from a gallery you know and trust can be a lot more enjoyable and much less stressful than bidding at auction” she says. She adds that with a gallery you can decide on payment terms that suit your wallet, you can take the piece of art home to consider it in its new environment and you can avail of the advice and good counsel of a trusted professional.

With an increasing interest in green, eco principles, antiques fit the bill perfectly, keeping wonderfully made items for many more years to come, a safe and solid investment for the future.

He says that silverware is always relatively good value, with plenty of well priced silver on the market at the moment - all perfect for that very special Christmas present. Prints and watercolours form more good bargains, very decorative for the home and with a vast range of subjects, many of them Irish.

(Pictured left) St Stephen’s Green

by Alan Graham.

People are being a lot more circumspect in what they buy and this will continue next year with purchases being much more carefully considered. But Loretto says that “buy what you like” is the old dictum that will really come into its own next year.

“Buy for your personal taste first and foremost.

Art is there to be enjoyed and that’s something that is sometimes overlooked in the scramble to make a good investment.”

“ Buy for your personal taste first and foremost. Art is there to be enjoyed and that’s something that is sometimes overlooked in the scramble to make a good investment.”

(Pictured above) Fair Head by Natalia Black.

(Pictured above) A ring holder, Rockingham, circa 1825.

(George Stacpoole, Adare)

Bookworms - Do You Have $44 Million Handy?

by Vanessa Parker, Vanessa Parker Rare Books The worlds most expensive book ever sold was Leonardo da Vinci’s ‘Codex Leicester’, a 72 page document which holds the world record price so far, sold in 1994 to Bill Gates for a price of $30.8million, or $ 44 million at today’s value.

To come back to earth though, a person may be better off collecting first editions which can be bought from a few euro upwards. Condition is always important, a rough or scruffy book will never increase in value to the extent one in good clean condition would. Dust jackets are equally important - a book that, let’s say, is worth €100 with a dust jacket is possibly only worth €20 without it.

Many people collect leather bindings, not only for the title or author but just for the look or the feel of them. Again condition is paramount and a handsome look goes a long way. Also highly collectable is illustrated books. Collect artists such as Harry Clarke, Arthur Rackham, Edmund Dulac, Heath Robinson, Willy Pogany, Hugh Thomson and children’s artists like Cecily Mary Barker for her Flower Fairies, Mabel Lucie Attwell, E H Shepard, illustrator of Milne’s Pooh Bear, & Wind In The Willows - the list is endless.

Collecting books can be great fun, one can hunt them down in car boot sales where many bargains have been found or in charity shops (usually overpriced these days though). Auction houses are of course a great source from boxed lots in clearance sales to specialist book sales. Do your homework though as descriptions can sometimes be misleading or confusing especially on the internet. It can be wise to find a reputable book dealer you like or trust, they should always be able to advise on suitable purchases for you & nothing beats looking through shelves in a bookshop or fair.

Contact Vanessa on 087 233 9221

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ORIEL GALLERY,

(Pictured left) Daniel O’Neill (1920-1974) ‘Portrait of a Woman (Joan)’ Oil on Board, 10 x 8 inches.

(Oriel Gallery, Dublin)

Dublin Mark Nulty its director,says “It’s easy to say ‘buy what you like’. That’s fine to a point and buying an appealing or sentimental piece of art at an affordable price is what makes collecting art so enjoyable.

(Pictured below) Alexander Mark Rossi (1840-1916) ‘Limpets’ Oil on Canvas, 18 .75 x 27 inches.

(Oriel Gallery, Dublin)

However if you are thinking of investing a lot of money in 2010 other factors come into play. A good name and a good track record are absolutely essential. Some people are always looking for the next big artist, the hot artist’ of the moment, but this exercise is often futile.”

He believes that next year there are going to be great opportunities for people who want to buy art for pleasure or investment, perhaps both.

MacHENRY ANTIQUES,

J.W.WELDON ANTIQUES,

Newtownabbey, Co Antrim

Dublin

Rupert MacHenry specialises in high quality furniture, mostly 19th century, and he has advice for people who are considering buying during 2010.

“The antiques and fine art markets, like any other market, aren’t bullet proof, but neither are they bank shares!”

He also says that people shouldn’t make the mistake of thinking they have to fill a room or house with antiques - a single statement piece will sit happily alongside contemporary furniture and will often look as striking in a modern house as in a period home. “Don’t think that perhaps antiques aren’t for you because you might damage them or you have small children or grandchildren who might do the same. Antiques are remarkably resilient. Their quality has ensured that they have survived for at least 100 years,often in daily use and in damp, cold houses.There’s a good chance they will become an heirloom in your family and be enjoyed by generation after generation.”

JOHNSTON ANTIQUES, Dublin (Pictured above) A good George III mahogany brass bound wine cooler on original stand c 1800. €2,675.

(MacHenry Antiques, Newtownabbey, Co Antrim)

He says that 2010 will be a very good time to buy as prices are very affordable. “In fact prices in Britain are already showing signs of an increase so if you are tempted I would urge everyone to start looking around now and not miss the boat!”

Rupert also says that people should buy the best quality that they can afford. “Look around the shops and antique fairs to see what is available and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Antique dealers know their subject, we know what to look out for and we are all happy to share our knowledge. After all, a happy customer is likely to purchase again.”

Johnston Antiques in Francis Street is renowned for its antique furniture, mostly 18th century.

The firm does much in the way of very fine quality Irish and English Georgian antiques, especially tables, desks and chests of drawers, as well as small items such as hanging shelves and tea caddies.

As for their main line of business, furniture, Chris Johnston says that brown furniture has never been better value than it is now and he expects this trend to continue through 2010.

Despite that he acknowledges that prices may rise next year. However very good pieces have kept their value and in a lot of cases that value has risen considerably.

Jimmy Weldon, a great specialist in Irish silverware, says that during 2010 people should look out for not just the rare marks - Cork, Kinsale, Galway and Limerick - but any fine early Irish pieces. “The rare marks can be very difficult to source, but they are well worth waiting for. Focus on really fine quality and be prepared to pay a little extra to get it,” he advises.

Fortunately a lot of old Irish silver is now coming back to Ireland from abroad - good Irish silver is already very well regarded in places like England, Australia and the US.

“ With really good natural coloured stones and fine jewellery generally you can’t lose money on it” He also says that you can’t go wrong with diamond jewllery. “With really good natural coloured stones and fine jewellery generally you can’t lose money on it” he says. Something else he reckons people should look out for in 2010 as a solid investment in pleasing antiques are freedom boxes. “They aren’t getting any more plentiful and they are holding their value pretty well.”

But above all in both silverware and jewellery Jimmy’s advice is to go for quality and if needs be, pay a little more to get that quality. It’s the first and most important criterion and it will never go out of fashion.

Do you really, really know what a print is?

by Andrew Bonar Law, Neptune Gallery

A print can be described as a graphic representation of any subject transferred onto any material through the medium of (usually) ink, allowing production by a repetitive process.

Generally prints are produced by 2 methods; relief and intaglio. Relief usually applies to wood, but also extends to metal, lino, even potato. In this process the raised surfaces are inked for printing the image, the cut away areas printing white.

Intaglio is the opposite; grooves or indentations are made in the printing plate (usually metal) these carry the ink which is then transferred to the paper by pressing the paper on to the plate and into the grooves.

(Pictured above) An absolutely beautiful Brocas print, from ‘The Twelve Views of Dublin.’ (The Neptune Gallery, Dublin)

The heyday of the decorative print would have been the 18C with the majority being mezzotint portraits by such engravers as Frye, Earlom, Purcell and others. There were few indigenous Moreland /Wheatley type stipple etchings/engravings of mainly domestic subjects.

Intaglio-printmaking Most, but by no means all, Irish prints starte their life in book form. Sometimes to illustrate accompanying text, other times simply as a collection of views with or without text. Broadly speaking they fall into the categories of: Decorative portraits, genre scenes; Topographical - views; & maps.

While topographical prints were produced in the middle of the century (Tudor’s six engravings of Dublin views) the real blossoming didn’t start till the 1790’s with the aquatints of Jonathon Fisher and James Malton. Fisher being the more prolific of the two with ‘Sixty Views in Ireland’, ‘Twenty four Views of Killarney’, ‘Twelve Views in Killarney’ all three being printed in sepia with accompanying letterpress and ‘Six Views of Carlingford’ and ‘Six more of Killarney’. These latter two sets, being produced as separate prints, were printed in black and white to a larger size. James Malton produced his remarkable book of Dublin Views: twenty five etched in aquatint by himself after his

own watercolours. Jukes aquatinted 24 views in West Cork and Kerry after Walmsley. These were published separately in colour as well as in sepia.

No article would be complete with out a mention of the Brocas family with Henry jnr. engraving Twelve Dublin views after his brother Samuel Frederick’s original water colours. Finally this snapshot of Irish prints would be incomplete without a mention of T.S.Roberts whose original watercolours and paintings appeared in large coloured aquatints by Havell (who produced the plates for Audubons Birds of America), Bluck, and others.

If you would like to speak with Andrew you can telephone him on (01) 282 2139.

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O’SULLIVAN ANTIQUES, Dublin and New York Chantal O’Sullivan, a stalwart of Francis Street, reckons that in the New Year pairs of furniture items will remain popular.

“They are a great investment as they are very desirable, such as the very fine pair of mahogany pot cupboards we had in stock recently. People have always loved collecting pairs of pieces of furniture and they always hold their value.”

She also says that circular tables continue to be popular, usually 4’ 6” to 5’, which can be used as centre tables in hall entrances or foyers and can also be used as dining tables in apartments or as occasional tables in larger houses.

“… people have always loved collecting pairs of pieces of furniture and they always hold their value.”

(Pictured above) Very fine pair of mahogany pot cupboards.

(O’Sullivan Antiques, Dublin And New York)

(Pictured left) Circular tables are always popular as centre tables in hall entrances.

(O’Sullivan Antiques, Dublin And New York)

NIALL MULLEN ANTIQUES, Dublin One of the more recent arrivals in Francis Street, the hub of the Dublin antiques trade,Niall specialises in Art Deco.This style is ideal for anyone who wants near contemporary antiques, as Art Deco was all the rage during the 1920s and 1930s.

He has a wonderful eclectic stock of Art Deco, everything from living and dining room furniture to lighting, glass and art. If you want a really unusual looking Frenchmade side cabinet in this type or simply some funky lighting, his shop is the place to go.

Prices can be very reasonable so he expects demand for this very particular style to continue through 2010 as people look for that something a little bit different when it comes to furnishing their homes.

(Pictured above) A French Art Deco Rosewood and Satinwood fall front cocktail cabinet.

TREASURES IRISH ART, Athlone Louis Walsh, who runs this wonderfully gallery with his son Vernon, says that Irish art provides a unique opportunity for both enjoyment and investment during 2010, provided that purchasers stick to a few basic and obvious rules.

gilt edged investment. “If you’re selling it’s important to pick the right moment. Despite the recession the value graph of a good painting by an established artist is onwards and upwards.”

He recommends “Confine your selection to established artists, contemporary and past, who have the full backing of reputable art galleries and auction houses.

Always take care to select a very good example of the artist’s work. Two works by the same artist might appear in auction with the same size and same guide price. One may not reach the lower end of the guide price while the other may exceed the top end.

Quality is the key factor.”

“Confine your selection to established artists, contemporary and past, who have the full backing of reputable art galleries and auction houses…

Quality is the key factor.”

Louis goes on to advise people to buy art that they absolutely love, guaranteeing many hours of pleasure, something that people will never tire of. This will give a

(Pictured above) ‘Summer’ by Ken Hamilton.

10” x 8” oil on board.

STRAFFAN ANTIQUES, Straffan, Co Kildare Eoin Ryan advises anyone who is investing in a ntiques to focus in 2010 on quality and authenticity.

An example he gives that fits this perfectly is a 19th century serpentine shaped chaise longue that was reupholstered in Straffan Antiques own conservation and restoration workshops. The original horse hair was reused, after being washed and restitched, while the original finish on the mahogany frame was cleaned and waxed to maintain its original patina.

It was a fantastic example of its genre priced at a very reasonable €2,800.

Straffan Antiques also sells a fine range of desks and bookcases, suitable for home and office use.

With many more people working from home a 19th century partner’s desk is always very much in demand. One of the services run by this dealers is a detailed website www.straffanantiques.com which is a good way of browsing in advance to see just what is available.

(Pictured above) A mid 19th century Chaise Longue, the deep buttoned back serpentine shaped front on mahogany cabriole legs traditionally reupholstered in horse hair.

(Pictured right) A twin pedestal partners desk in mahogany, the top inset with tooled leather over a frieze of three drawers on each side supported on pedestals of three drawers with opposing cupboard doors on a solid plinth.

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You’re a celebrity–

if you can identify these objects!

ITEM 1

ITEM 2

What date was this piece of antique jewellery made and how would you describe it? (From Courtville Antiques, Dublin)

This one is timeless, but can you describe and date it? (From Timepiece Antique Clocks, Dublin)

ITEM 3 Something fishy about this me thinks! But can you date and describe it? (Stacpoole Antiques, Adare)

ITEM 4

SEE BACK PAGE FOR QUIZ ANSWERS.

If you know what this is you really know your mustard? Date and description please.

(J .W. Weldon Antiques, Dublin)

IAN HASLAM,

TIMEPIECE ANTIQUE CLOCKS,

Dublin

Dublin

Ian Haslam,whose shop is in the Powerscourt Centre, Dublin, says that during 2009 there was an emphasis in his shop in gentlemen’s desks and all the accoutrements that go with them.

He expects this trend to continue in 2010 with excellently priced items enabling collectors to invest well for modest sums. He cites some recent items he has had on sale. A double bottle inkstand,made in London in 1901 by the famous makers Mappin and Webb was a truly handsome piece priced at €2,600. He also had a wide range of interesting plain single glass bottle inkstands with cut glass based and domes silver lids, such as one made in Chester in 1911 and priced at €245.

Another was a plain circular capstan inkwell, with an indentation in the cover in which to rest the pen, made in Birmingham in 1912 and which was selling for €225.An unusual item was a silver roller blotter,

decorated in a ribbon and thread design, made in Germany circa 1900 and priced at €245.

Also retaining their popularity are Victorian and Edwardian silver business card cases. Ian had a good recent example with a plain case, made in Birmingham in 1898 and priced at 195. Other interesting antiques that are very interesting and yet reasonably priced were shaving mugs and shaving brushes. The Silver Shop recently had in stock an Edwardian silver shaving mug, made in London in 1903 by William Comyns, an unusual collector’s item for €1,095. Ian also had on offer a travelling gents’ shaving brush made in Dublin circa 1820 by James Fray. This cylindrical piece was priced at €895.

Pictured below is an absolutely beautiful silvered dial Mahogany bracket clock, circa 1900 available at Timepiece Antique Clocks - price: €2,250.

Yet another interesting kind of antique comes in the shape of unususal and interesting cuff links. Ian has ones in silver from €80 upwards and in gold from €175. More unusually there was an 18ct gold and carved oval citrine stone set with diamond cuff links for €795. An Art Deco engine turned design pair of octagonal platinum and 18ct yellow gold cuff links from the 1930s were selling for €750.

Finally, and on an eminently practical note,for keeping warm at rugby matches Ian recommends some some silver hip flasks for that wee dram. A fine Victorian example made in Birmingham in 1898 was marked at €495, while for Art Deco collectors there was a handsome engine turned design, made in Birmingham in 1939, for €445.

Ian expects the interest in such items to continue through 2010 and they will continue to represent good investment value.

FRAMEWORKS, Killarney, Co Kerry Owner Katie O’Connell says that given the decline in the value of stocks and shares and the performance and attitude of the banks, it’s little wonder that people are turning to investment in fine art. She says “People are always looking for good quality art to put in their homes, but they also want art that’s going to be a good investment. My advice is always to buy the best quality you can afford at the time.”

“ My advice is always to buy the best quality you can afford at the time.”

This applies to antiques as much as to art and one recent stock item suggested by Katie as being an ideal investment as an antique piece was a harlequin pair of 19th century French walnut card tables, very good looking for the home, yet something that will always hold its value.

(Pictured above – main picture and detail) Victorian and Edwardian Silver inkwells. (Ian Haslam, Dublin)

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CYNTHIA O’CONNOR GALLERY, Lissenhall, Co Dublin Sir Robert and Lady Goff advise that in the art world quality is everything,with condition also a prime consideration. They say that if you can buy museum quality items that are out of fashion both satisfaction and safety of capital are more or less guaranteed.

“The converse applies: avoid travelling on this moment’s whim, especially if the underlying artists is more a creature of fashion and quality,” says Sir Robert.

He adds “I still believe in the area that my wife and I have worked in for many years - the early Irish landscape artists.”

This is one particular school where Ireland can compete well internationally in terms of quality, and while prices are undoubtedly softer than they once were, quality items will still find a market at a useful level.

Sir Robert recommends the 18th century masters, Ashford, Barrett, Carver, Mullins and Roberts as the ideal nucleus of a collection. Moving into the 19th century, James Arthur O’Connor and William Sadler uphold this tradition at a more accessible price range. This is all very useful advice when considering art purchases to be made during 2010.

“ I still believe in the area that my wife and I have worked in for many years - the early Irish landscape artists.”

WARREN GALLERY, Castletownshend, Co Cork Fergus O’Mahony is putting money on one particular artist for 2010 - Aidan Bradley, who works mainly in oils, but also in acrylics.

The results are stunning and dramatic and Fergus says that this artist has a sympathy with his subjects that few artists achieve. Many of his canvases are historical buildings in his native Dublin, as well as street scenes in and around the inner city.

Adds Fergus “The work inspires nostalgia and this is a sign that he wants people to remember that the city was built in difficult times by craftsmen of great prowess.

His work has longevity, not just because of the subject matter, but because he has a sense of pride in the art works he creates.”

(Pictured above) Archway Dublin Castle, By Aidan Bradley.

(Warren Gallery, Co Cork) (Pictured right) Castletownshend, by Aidan Bradley.

(Warren Gallery, Co Cork)

“ The work inspires nostalgia and this is a sign that he wants people to remember that the city was built in difficult times by craftsmen of great prowess.”

DAVID WOLFENDEN, Antrim David, who specialises in fine 19th century furniture for every main room in the house, furniture that is always in the very best of tradition, reiterates the point that antiques are made to last and that what this generation buys will be passed on to the next generation. “In my opinion, small, quality pieces of antique furniture will always be in fashion and they sit well in modern houses, adding that touch of importance.”

“ In my opinion, small, quality pieces of antique furniture will always be in fashion and they sit well in modern houses, adding that touch of importance.”

He adds that antiques were in vogue 100 years ago and are still in demand today. “They will always be in fashion for the person who wants to purchase something beautiful and wants to pass it on to the next generation. People talk about a blip in antiques, but antiques deserve to be talked up. If you go into a good retailer of antiques you’ll find lots of antiques that aren’t expensively priced, yet if bought right, will outlast everything else.”

(Pictured above) Superb William IV Rosewood Antique Work Table with Games Talble.

(Pictured above) Superb Victorian Burr Walnut Trumpet Sewing Box.

(Pictured above) A Beautiful William IV Rosewood Teapoy.

DALY’S ANTIQUE SERVICES, Dublin (Pictured below) The faded and bleached top on an Edwardian dining table before restoration.

(Pictured right) A re-polished Edwardian Dining Table – restored to it’s former glory.

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Here is the Most Beautiful Irish Book Ever – but you might have difficulty reading it!

by Peter Rowan, P.& B. Rowan Antiquarian Books We have fairly recently purchased what is to my mind the most physically beautiful of the early Irish books, namely Thomas Messingham’s ‘Florilegium Insula Sanctorum seu Vitae et Acta Sanctorum Hiberniae’, printed in Paris in 1624.

It is a quarto work of almost 500 pages with the title page printed in red and black and with 4 fine portraits of Saints Columba, Patrick, Brigid engraved after Messingham's own drawings, and with very numerous handsome decorative woodcut initial letters and tail pieces throughout. The handsome russet morocco binding is

by C. Murton, an early nineteenth century London based fine binder and it has the distinguished recent provenance of the famous Pusey House library in Oxford.

It has a contemporary owner's signature on the title page.

Thomas Messingham, who was born in County Meath about 1575, was educated in Paris and obtained a doctorate from the Sorbonne. After his ordination as a secular priest he became Moderator of the Irish College in Paris. Since Catholic publications were at that period strictly forbidden in Ireland all of his writings, of which the 'Florilegium' is the most important and the most beautiful, were published in France.

The book, drawn from both manuscript and printed sources, is a collection of the lives of some of the principal Irish saints together with a valuable 24 page account of Saint Patrick's purgatory at Lough Derg in Donegal (written about 1140 but apparently first published here), the Prophecies of Saint malachy, and many other legends and traditions of the early Irish church. Several other leading exiled and learned Irish catholic priests contributed material to the book, including a series of poems on Irish saints and a treatise demonstrating the abundance of Irish writers from the fourth to the thirteenth centuries.

Peter can be contacted at P.& B. Rowan Antiquarian Books, Belfast.

Tel: 048 90666448.

“Since Catholic publications were at that period strictly forbidden in Ireland all of his writings, of which the ‘Florilegium’ is the most important and the most beautiful, were published in France.”

Quiz Answers From Page 12

Item 1) A 17th century gold Stuart earring Circa 1650.

Item 2) An extremely rare Sedan Clock - the original ‘car clock!’ Circa 1830.

Item 3) A Fish strainer on plate Wedgewood. Circa 1820.

Item 4) A George II blind caster. Note that the engraving at the top is not pierced. It was used for dry mustard. Circa 1746.