Dolls have always mirrored the mores and fashions of our times, and the “bathing beauties” and “naughty novelty dolls” are no exception. Despite the seeming prudery of the Victorian era, pornography reared its ugly head in the 19th century with the advent of the candid camera and the subsequent Read more [...]

You probably never thought that you could justify spending money on antiques to relieve stress. However, some experts say collecting antiques is a valid way to define yourself and renew your identity outside of the work world. When it comes to stress relief, most of us think of taking a vacation first. Read more [...]

You’ve just brought home the most precious piece of furniture you own – your first antique. You’ve been admiring it, and, after great consideration, carefully place it in just the perfect position. A few days later you notice it has a light dusting of powder — oh no, it’s dust — and you head Read more [...]

Just as every black pot is not a Maria Martinez, nor every plush toy a Ty, not every plastic bangle is Bakelite. But, if you don’t recognize it, it is not for lack of information, however repetitive. Schiffer Ltd. currently has five books in publication, including a little general paperback, Plastic Read more [...]

There comes a time in the lives of many collectors when, for some reason, items need to be released. Often the entire collection goes, though a few favorite pieces (those with special, personal meaning) may be retained. Other collectors sell part of a collection, keeping the artifacts or artworks of Read more [...]

The Rainbow comes and goes, And lovely is the Rose. William Wordsworth The lines from the poet in 1803 could just as well have been in reference to rosewood, the remarkable material which was a rainbow of tropical woods which filled the air of fresh roses when cut. Because of its charm the romance Read more [...]