A definite new trend
Demand is strong, but it runs side by side with a demand for good value. Dealers and auctioneers are all adamant that the price must be right if an object is to be sold successfully. Georgian, Regency, William IV, Victorian and Edwardian furniture that will fit readily into an existing home is sought after and has become relatively easier to sell. The market for side tables, hall tables, silver tables, sewing boxes, teapoys, wine coolers, card tables, compact display cabinets, credenzas and various other items of occasional furniture is surprisingly solid. But if you are hoping to find a buyer for a Georgian linen press — even though it is a wonderful piece of furniture — you will almost certainly be left whistling in the wind. Larger pieces of antique furniture are most difficult to sell.
There is no argument about the fact that the absence of speculators and risk takers has opened the door to more discriminating collectors. There are fewer antique shops with more fairs, more auctions and more auction houses engaging in private sales.
