Archive for the ‘Wandering the Web’ Category

While many consider ‘original’ art to be the most valuable, there are many prints that bring surprising prices.  John James Audubon prints are widely known and collected — and reproduced by the millions.  How do you know if your print is valuable or someone’s promotional give-away?  Ron Flynn has some advice.  Although now retired, for many years Mr. Flynn collected, sold, and authored guides to the prints of Audubon and shares much of this knowledge on his website [http://www.auduboninfo.net/index.htm].

The first Audubon edition, Birds of America published in London, included 435 hand colored prints, issued in 87 parts of 5 prints each, and spanned the years 1826-1838.  Other editions of Birds of America were followed by The Viviparous Quadrupeds of North America and Quadrupeds of North America, also with more than one edition.  Modern day editions of high quality began appearing in the early 1970s.  Of course, there’s cheap prints, calendars, posters, copies, etc. numbering in the millions.

So which is worth keeping, and which do you wrap the fish in?  Actually, it’s a little complicated when you realize just how many editions (some quite limited) were produced under different labels.  Mr. Flynn does an remarkable job of explaining in detail each of the collections – size, paper, ink, printing process, watermark, embossing, plate number, and more.  All details that, with a bit of detective work, can help you identify your print.  It’s unlikely you’ll run across one of the early editions, but some of the modern ones bring quite respectable prices.  Maybe it’s time to take a closer look at Audubon print that’s hung over Grandma’s fireplace for years.

Two Websites – One Subject: Fenton Glass

Fenton Art Glass has a long history of producing beautiful, colorful, quality glass.  Started in 1905 by two Fenton brothers, the company today is still family owned and operated.  Last July, Fenton announced they would stop production of their traditional glass, and focus on lampwork beads and teardrop earrings.  Existing inventory is still available and there’s over a hundred years of art glass already out there.

More so than many other companies, Fenton made a commitment to collectors.  By sharing the company’s history, from the earliest logos and labels, a timeline of artisians, signatures, and more – they’ve removed a lot of the guesswork for both collectors and dealers.  Quite helpful, especially if you’re about to plunk down a good chunk of change for a Fenton piece.

The site map at the bottom of Fenton’s home page [http://www.fentonartglass.com] leads you to the company history where you’ll find, not only the Fenton story, but a timeline and family tree.  Paper labels used from 1921 are illustrated along with comments about each.  Included in the mold logos, which were only begun in the 70s, are logos used on seconds.  Fenton Family Signatures is an invaluable reference for the ‘Family Signature Series’ introduced in 1993.

In the 50s it was decided that each basket handler (those who attached the handles to baskets) should have their own mark.  Basket Handler Marks, along with employment dates, can be found on the Collectors page.  Yet another great help in dating Fenton.

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Our second website “Fenton Fanatics” [http://www.fentonfan.com/] is sponsored by Berry Patch Gifts, an Alabama Fenton dealer.  It has direct links to most of the subject matter mentioned above, but also a great deal of additional information you won’t want to pass up.

Two databases are available with a great search engine.  Fenton glass has been sold through QVC since 1989 and you have a choice of browsing through 43 pages of photos (fun, but time-consuming if you’re looking for a particular item) or using the search.  Fill in as little information as ‘bowl’ and up pops every bowl offered on QVC.  Click on a single one and everything you could possibly want to know is at your fingertips: name, date, color/treatment, mold type, QVC item #, Fenton #, price, signature, description, and a photo.  Those who collect animals will be tickled pink with the Fenton Animals database – same search engine, same great results.

Fenton catalogs in full color from January 1950.  Candy for the eyes, you’ve got to browse through these to realize the beauty, variety, and glorious color of Fenton glass.

Over the years, many decorators worked at Fenton.  The Decorators’ Names list is extensive, includes ‘also known as’ (usually due to marriage), and, where possible, the actual signature.  A shorter list identifies some of the independent and retired artists known to have painted Fenton glass outside the factory.

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With the valuable knowledge offered in these websites and a little ‘hands on’ experience, you can feel confident in selecting Fenton Art Glass.

I recently acquired five older cameras, three 35mm and two that fit in a category I wasn’t even aware of.  After a long online search, I found one of the manuals that someone would happily sell to me.  I wasn’t really looking to use the camera, just couldn’t figure out how to open the darn thing.  Googled one more time and ta-da! the complete manual in pdf format, freely downloadable, print one or all pages if I desired (and really simple to open once you know how).

Collectors, dealers, photographers, and people who tend to lose owner manuals will find Michael Butkus Jr.’s website invaluable.  He’s put a huge inventory of over 3500 camera manuals online – read, download, print – it’s all free.  OrphanCameras.com is about older cameras, no digitals here.

Easy to navigate.  Pick a manufacturer and you get a detailed list of their cameras.  Pick a camera and you get a photo (looks like yours?), then click for the pdf.  Find the info you need, or save to your computer, or print.  Can’t find your manufacturer listed?  There’s another section for the off-the-wall cameras that are non-brand names.

Got a flash you don’t know where it goes?  Need a flash for your camera?  Check out Electronic Flash/Light Meter and you’ll find your manual.

Old Photo Catalogs is awesome. From 1888 on – Kodak, Montgomery Ward, Canon, Sears and more – you can view the advertisements for newest and most advanced for the moment.  Remember your first camera?  You’ll probably find it here.

General info on cameras, photography, film, developing and pretty much anything that has to do with taking a picture can be found in Booklets/Non-instruction.  This database is huge and I can’t begin to tell you what it encompasses.

Orphancamera.com [http://www.butkus.org/chinon/] is the ultimate website for vintage and antique cameras.  I found all five manuals that I needed, including ones manufactured before I was born, and immediately made a donation.  If you find this site useful I encourage you to do the same.

Check it out and you won’t find this information available anywhere else; and for free.  What more could you ask for?

Tell ‘em I sent ‘ya
Victoria

 A Hug . . . isn’t that appropriate?  Lucky Bears Limited is a UK company, understandable since England’s manufacturers of collectible Teddy Bears outnumbered many other countries.  Although Lucky Bears offers a few new bears for children, they specialize in vintage and antique bears for the collector and new collectible bears are available from selected manufacturers.

Steiff is probably the most well-known maker of Teddy Bears and auction prices confirm its collectibility.  But there are several other companies that produced (some still in business) high quality bears.  As part of their Encyclopaedia, Lucky Bears gives us the history, popular bears, and means of identification for companies spanning five countries.  While many may think ‘one size fits all,’ the characteristics of each company’s bears shows just how unique these creations are.

Browsing the antique and vintage bears for sale, one is struck by the personality of each.  Many were created to commemorate events and people.  Paddington Bear is a classic example of bears who were born from storybooks.  And who doesn’t remember Smokey telling us “Only YOU can prevent forest fires”?

Lucky Bears tells you how to care for your bears – storage, cleaning, pests, etc.  Especially important when adding a vintage bear to your Hug.  Not just for antique bears, this is applicable to the numerous bears your children have been given over the years.  The glossary is well done and includes ‘when’ and ‘why’ explanations.  Vastly more understandable than just a quickie definition, which often leaves one no wiser than before.  If you’ve come across a Teddy Bear term not mentioned, Lucky Bears encourages you to email them and they’ll add it to the glossary.

Just as we have a diversified group of friends, Teddy’s circle includes dogs, frogs, rabbits, beavers and more.  Collectible on their own, Teddy would invite them all to a party.  And don’t forget to dress appropriately; from a casual backyard barbecue to the president’s inauguration, the well-dressed bear is ready for any occasion.  You can find accessories here or inspiration to make your own.

How much is your bear worth?  Lucky Bears gives us an in-depth look at what makes a bear valuable.  Condition is primary for any collectible, manufacturer is important, but size, color and other factors also contribute to value.  Take a close look at your Teddy Bear while reading “How Much is MY Antique Bear Worth?” and you may move him from your bed to a glass case.

Lucky Bears Limited <http://luckybears.com> is a friendly, informative, easy-to-navigate site.  They gladly share their considerable knowledge and have superb photos.  And don’t forget to check out the Links page for clubs, current manufacturers, magazines, and more.

Tell ‘em I sent ya’
Victoria

P.S. For those not familiar with the metric system an easy, one-step conversion is http://www.worldwidemetric.com/measurements.html

My son’s really into music and always downloading songs to his iPod.  Whenever I’m reminded of an old and favorite song, I’ll mention it so he can check it out.  Recently, I thought of “In The Ghetto” and as soon as the words were out of my mouth, he said “You mean Elvis’ song?”  My heart went pitter-patter and I silently yelled “Yes, I did raise him right!”

Thousands of fans will be making the pilgrimage to Graceland for Elvis Week August 10-16.  34 years after his death, he’s still with us.  I was browsing through Elvis websites and there are zillions.  But for fun and insight and collectible info without sales pitch, this was my favorite.

Meet Tom Willett is a long-time fan and collector of all things Elvis and, arguably ‘world’s worst Elvis impersonator’.  With more than 50 years in show business, Tom has an insider’s perception of the entertainment industry.  And as he states – Everything on this site is free. There is no membership. There are no fees. You do not have to register. Enjoy your visit.

If you follow Wandering the Web, you know I usually choose sites that have lots of categorized information.  Elvis Collectables is different.  It’s like a fantastic story with all this great collectible stuff woven in.  Tom makes connections that many collectors may not have recognized.  He tells us about the people and places Elvis was involved with, how these associations are also collectible.

If you love Elvis, if you collect Elvis, if you just want to revisit your past (or your parents’!), check out Elvic Collectables at http://www.elviscollectables.com/index.html.  It’s a trip you will enjoy.

P.S. Elvis’ first appearance on the Ed Sullivan Show September 9, 1956 – was watched by 60 million U.S. viewers, roughly half of the population who had TVs at that time.

I’m doing an about face with this month’s featured website.  No photos and limited information.  Common Button Back Marks [http://pweb.netcom.com/~jimyce/bm.html] lists manufacturers of buttons and likely dates when they were made.  If you’re a button collector there are many websites you probably already frequent.   For others, this one-page site can be very useful for dating clothing, handbags, shoes, gloves, and more.

Originally designed to promote saving among children, Mechanical Banks were produced from about 1869 until the start of World War II.  To make these banks appealing to kids, they were cleverly designed, often depicting historical, legendary or everyday events.  Each bank performed a stunt or an action.  The banks quickly caught on with children and adults alike and soon became a sought-after collector’s item.

The Mechanical Bank Collectors of America [http://www.mechanicalbanks.org/index.html] was formed in 1958 to meet the needs of collectors, by adding to the existing knowledge base and increasing availability of mechanical banks.  Members of MBCA have access to continually updated material including a thrice-a-year journal, price guide, annual convention, special reports, videos, references, and chat, among others.

But fear not, there’s a lot of great stuff for the non-member.  And after viewing these wonderful inventions, it would be very easy to get hooked!  From the simple to the unbelievably intricate, unadorned metal to eye-popping colors – MBCA’s slide show will have you entranced.  You can choose from several speeds or, as I chose to do, view one at a time.

Scrapbook is a collection covering, well, just about everything – who, what, when, where, and why.  If you’re looking for something specific a ‘search’ will check over 3000 pages in the public section.  Having been around for over 50 years, MBCA has managed to amass an impressive amount of documentation.  Since I wasn’t looking for anything in particular I spent a couple hours browsing.  (P.S. to history buffs – you’ll love this.) 

I discovered excellent images of advertisements and catalogs from as early as 1876.  Patent images and papers that will make your heart pitter-patter because there’s a good chance you’ll find your bank even if you don’t have a patent number or manufacturer or date or any information other than a mechanical bank sitting in front of you.  First time I’ve ever come across patent information listed this way and I can only wish it was this easy for other collectibles.

A section devoted to J. & E. Stevens Co., a premier manufacturer of mechanical banks includes photos, ledgers, account books, correspondence, designers, etc.  Not just the information, but almost always the original documents.  Note: throughout the website whenever a handwritten document was scanned there is an accompanying typed transcript since some handwriting can be difficult to interpret.

For those interested in the creation of mechanical banks (for the most part, anything metal), ‘The Foundry’ has it all.  How a design on paper becomes a three-dimensional object with moving parts.  A technical expose that should interest metal workers of all disciplines.

How much is your mechanical bank worth?  With MBCA’s auction results from three major auction houses, you can find out.  And once again, easy to look up since it’s listed by bank description.

There’s more to find at Mechanical Bank Collectors of America.  It’s an awesome website with a whole lot of free information.  Wouldn’t this be a great collection to start for your kids or grandkids?

tell ‘em i sent ya,
victoria

Some of the most beautiful items you will run across will be made, at least in part, of wood. Furniture, figurines, carvings, clocks, gun stocks, humidors—the list is endless.  It stands to reason, then, that the variety of woods used to create these works of art is nearly endless as well.  Rosewood, cedar, mahogany or teak, common or exotic—they all have an inherent warmth and beauty that captures the eye and makes us want to surround ourselves with wood.

There are several websites with information and images of thousands of woods, and I’ve used all of them over the years.  But I’d recommend Paul Hinds’ woodpics, a “non-commercial site focusing on color-correct pictures of exotic and domestic woods” at http://www.hobbithouseinc.com/personal/woodpics/index.htm as your first stop in identifying a wood.

With most wood identification sites you access a photograph of the wood by clicking on the name.  This process works great IF you know what kind of wood you have.  If not, you can spend hours clicking, viewing a photograph, going back, clicking on next name, etc.

Paul Hinds’ site has photos of over 500 different types of wood in a single column on the main page, making it easy on the eyes and surprisingly quick to go through.  By scrolling down you can view about five at a time.  If you see one that’s similar to what you’re looking for, you can click on it.  A new window (yay! you won’t lose the main page) pops up with—at the very least—general info and a larger photo.  In almost every case, you’ll find many additional photos displaying different cuts, veneers, raw wood, planks, finishes, etc. and divinely detailed close-ups.  Amazingly, the website has over 22,000 photos for you to peruse!

An ILLUSTRATED glossary gave me an understanding of many industry terms, an added bonus when previous readings had left me scratching my head going “huh?”  The glossary covers not only what the average person might want to know, but also targets woodworkers and carpenters.  With specific wood terms, wood toxicity, common and botanical name lists, articles, and new information added frequently, nothing is overlooked.

Presented in a conversational style, it’s easy reading. Donations are accepted to keep it commercial-free.  If you’d like to know your woods, be sure to bookmark Paul’s website—you’ll find it extremely useful, and the woods are breathtaking.

Tell ‘em I sent ya’
Victoria

They’ve all appeared on collectible promotional glasses.  And confusing – if you’ve ever tried to figure out who, what and when.  The Promotional Glass Collectors Association has created a remarkable database that they’ve opted to share online.  You don’t have to be a member to view, but if you are interested in promotional glasses or have customers who are, a member is REALLY a good thing to be.  Also, these have such a large cross-over into other collectibles (Disney, Superhero, Pepsi, Character, etc.) and you’ll find yourself returning time and again.

Arranging the information in a database makes this a ‘searching for dummies’ dream.  Type ‘lion’ and you’ll get a list of all the lions who ever appeared on a glass.  Type ‘burger king’ and poof! – all the glasses they used for promotion.  Click on a glass and you get a larger photo.  Glasses are given an ID#, brief description, size, category, name, search keys and additional categories to find similar ones, comments; and year and variations when known.  And the feature you’re going to love – when applicable, each glass is linked to the entire set.  No more guessing if you’ve finally completed a set, with all its variations.  Read Examples and Definitions on the database page before you start searching for helpful hints.  One note: Pepsi and Coca-Cola produced hundreds, if not thousands, of promotional glasses – both too long for a single list, so pick another feature of the glass for your search.

Starting a collection can be fun (especially for children) and reasonable, although if you get really serious the scarcer glasses can put a dent in your pocket.  A rare set of 6 early McDonald’s glasses sold on ebay for $612 last year.  [I visualize everyone heading for the kitchen cupboard right about now.]

Be sure to check out the FAQ page which has a lot more than your usual FAQ, including a glossary.  Articles on different subjects, bookstore, message board, plus a link takes you to PGCA’s Flickr site where collectors share photos, finds, collections and related items.

Club meets are held all over the country, this year in Ohio on the same weekend as the Springfield Extravaganza Flea Market.  Besides being invited to the meeting, some of the benefits of membership are: opportunity to purchase limited edition club glasses (only 144 made); voting on club issues; free wanted/for sale ads; opportunity to meet great people and access to the member list (see who collects what you do).  You’ll find some great deals in the independent auction open to anyone. Just email the auctioneer to get a bid number. You can also consign items for the auction.  PGCA gets a small percentage that helps keep their terrific website up and running for us all.

Who hasn’t had at least a few mismatched, colorful and crazy glasses in the cupboard at one time or another?  Don’t you wish you’d saved every one of them?  Take a walk down memory lane as you browse PGCA’s website (http://www.pgcaglassclub.com/index.php).

Tell ‘em I sent ya’
Victoria

Being that Gin-For’s Odditiques has the most information on WG pottery I’ve ever found, I chose the above heading.  Besides – “West German Pottery, Art Pottery, Porcelain, Glass, Paintings, Corporate Cats, Life and Death, Puns and Giggles” seemed a bit lengthy. You’ll see what I mean when you get there, so I’ll stick to the main subject.

Ginny and Forrest collect, buy and sell West German Pottery, one of the rare collectibles that has a relatively short and definite period of production – 1949 to 1990. They boast of one of the finest selections of WG pottery in the U.S. and I don’t doubt it.  Addicted to auctions and antiques since 1991, they began focusing on W. German pottery about 1997.  A few years later, they created the ginforsodditiques.com site and began to share their still growing knowledge of the field, including makers, marks, quality, buying, glazes, values and more.

Lots and lots of excellent photos (oh, happy day!) of marks and pottery categorized by company, color, size and more.  They’ve even kept their sold items online (with bottom marks) to help you with identification, along with added notes referring to designers, glazes, shape numbers, etc.

Not content with just facts and photos, informed and practical articles on collecting WG pottery, values, etc. – Gin-For’s Odditiques created a running commentary through their Facebook page where collectors meet up to share their finds, ask questions, and make new friends.  Forrest and Ginny continually update their website, every time I visit there’s something new.

And, as I said earlier, a whole lot more.  You MIGHT be able to go through the West Germany pottery in an evening if you skip dinner and TV and your regular bedtime. But you’ll definitely have to come back again and again if you want the full monty.  A combination of wit and wisdom, you won’t regret visiting http://www.ginforsodditiques.com/.

Tell ‘em I sent ya’
Victoria