Ruth Parker
Valuer
Modern and Antique silver is sold weekly and although many traditional tea services still tend to be sold by weight, prices can often bear no relation to the weight with small, light pieces realising as much if not more than heavy, unfashionable items. This is borne out by the prices achieved for the still highly collectable Georgian and earlier small collectable pieces which show a high degree of craftsmanship with the simplicity of style and which are easy to display.
Continental and especially Asian silver has become popular with collectors and despite many pieces being unmarked or bearing indistinguishable marks, prices are rising especially for the highly decorative examples of the late 19th century.
The annual ‘Christmas’ sale is party to the Bijouterie and Small Silver Section where many interesting pieces can be found for presents for all genders and caters to all pockets.
Silver from the Aesthetic, Arts and Crafts, Art Nouveau and Art Deco continues to be popular, being of excellent quality, craftsmanship and highly decorative, often combining the art of the enameller which always elevates the value, especially if the delicate enamels are in excellent condition.
Valuer