Guidelines for 19th Century Furniture Authentication
HR asked, “How do I tell WHICH era a piece of 19th century furniture, American or English, comes FROM? What are the different eras WORTH?” My answers, take each era …
Glendessary Jam – Old Time Music
Erika Smith, Phil Levy, Steve Owens, Chris Laurer, and Nance Cole, members of the Glendessary Jam – Old Time Music fill the studio with back porch melodies.
Fake or Real Galle Glass?
LN from Santa Barbara sent me a fine looking cameo glass boudoir lamp marked “Galle” on the shade. Very tricky indeed, because I don’t think it’s an original French Galle …
Pre-Columbian Effigies Pose Problems
JE sent me a photo of two Pre-Columbian pottery figures. They appear to come from the Nayarit culture in West Mexico, 100 BC to 250 AD. I say they “appear” …
Sullivan Goss Gallery
Curator and Dealer, Susan Bush, talks about the latest goings-on at Sullivan Goss Gallery.
Mortar and Pestle: An Ancient Tool Re-emerges
IC sent this photo of a very heavy, 9″ diameter stone mortar and pestle. I find it difficult to ascertain the age of this beauty. Mortar and pestles go back, …
Antique Pitchers Live to Tell Stories for New Generation
MM grew up with two identical German antique milk pitchers representing twin sentimental looking lions. She got a brilliant idea and plans to give them to her great-great nephews, who …
Kevin McKiernan: From Wounded Knee to Standing Rock
Filmmaker Kevin McKiernan talks about the Santa Barbara premiere ( Tue, Dec 10, 7 pm at Marjorie Luke Theatre) of his documentary From Wounded Knee to Standing Rock: a reporter’s …
The Value of Fine Antique Furniture in America
Imagine me driving through a beautiful wrought iron gate in Montecito. I enter a grand house filled with fine antique furniture, loved for 40 years. Get ready, I think, because …
Vintage Clothing and What to Do With It
RB, a loyal reader from Santa Barbara, sent me a photo of a wonderful silk blouse she made in the 1950’s. It won her a prize in Home Ec. A …