Antiques Department.

 

An antique (Latin: antiquus; old) is a collectable item which is usually old (more than 100 years of age) and is collected or desirable because of its age, rarity, condition, utility or other unique features.

 

Antiques are items which show some degree of skill in their manufacture (craftsmanship) or a certain attention to design detail (for example, Art Deco, Art Nouveau or Arts & Crafts) such as a work of art, piece of pottery, furniture or an early vintage motorcycle or car.

 

In a consumer society, an antique is above all an object (objet) who's atypical construction and age give it a market value superior to similar objects of recent manufacture.

 

Any object can become an antique if it survives long enough, but the real value of an antique is determined by its appeal, desirability and social acceptance, and of course its beauty and rarity. At Objets d'Art we choose our antiques so that they fulfil as many of these criteria as possible.

 

Ecologically speaking antiques have become increasingly more desirable in the 'recycling society' we are eagerly promoting. An antique piece of furniture, for example, may be deemed to have a negligible 'carbon footprint' when we considered its long life!

 

In the antiques department of Objets d'Art you will find an inspirational and ever-changing range of antiques from many historical periods, including 19th and early 20th Century prints, lithographs, oil paintings, books and ephemera, ceramics (pottery and porcelain), furniture, clocks, tapestries, architectural and horticultural items, lighting and other decorative antiques for the home. You will find objets from different countries and in different styles reflecting the period in which they were fashioned.

 

Can I visit Objets d'Art?

 

We welcome visitors.Most of the items shown on our website are available for immediate despatch. We endeavour to describe our antique items as accurately as possible and of course you are free to examine anything for yourself. Many of our larger pieces are only available by visiting our gallery shop in Kirriemuir. We are conveniently located in the heart of N.E. Scotland along with other antique shops and antiques centres within easy reach. We are open on Saturdays and by appointment during the week. If you would like to make an appointment or you have any questions about our antiques please feel free to ring or email us.

 

A Cautionary Word.

 

The long-term investment performance of quality antique furniture and pieces has consistently been impressive, but a word of caution, ensure that you buy pieces that you like or will use and that will remain appealing. The key to any purchase is rarity and quality. It is best to avoid buying anything too trendy, as in years to come, it will no longer be deemed so fashionable and it may be hard to recover your initial investment

 

Aim to buy quality items, not necessarily the best - as these are already selling at high prices. Quality items will increase in value more over the long term and will provide a better return on your capital. In the same way that we see the value of equities rise and fall, art and antique items can also fluctuate in value. The longer you keep the piece the better the investment may be. Provide regular maintenance of the item, and make sure that any repairs are in keeping. Always insure the item adequately.