Antiques

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Is there a soul that does not drool over the sight of antiques? Didn’t think so. If only choosing, matching and most importantly, affording antique furniture was as easy as loving it, we’d all be singing happy chimes, carelessly reminiscing and fancying those glorious and endlessly inspirational ancient times. We had spared a few pennies for the thoughts of the antique furniture pros so that even the aesthetically mortal souls can stash a few aces up their sleeves and add just the right amount of value and style to their home.

Want to create a relaxing oasis in you garden? Seems like you are not alone. Sanctuary garden is actually one of the fasted-growing exterior designing trends according to designers. The simple reason why many homeowners want to create meditation and restorative gardens is because they, just like you, are realizing the importance of introducing peacefulness and balance into their busy, hectic lives.

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Nothing better than taking few moments of complete peace to distance yourself from the everyday commotion and stress. A sanctuary garden seems to be one of the best ways to achieve this. But how do you turn your garden into a place of meditation where you can focus and quiet your mind? Here are few steps to give you a head start.

  • Make a plan – Start with a picture of the desired outdoor décor piece. Or maybe you already own one. Take a good look of the selected outdoor décor piece, close your eyes and try to visualize the piece in your garden and the space as a whole. Now make it a reality.
  • Define how you and your family will use the space – Do you often have family dinners outside or maybe hold a small book reading club or meditate together? Knowing how you will use your garden will help you figure out the design including which décor pieces will best match the design. This will also help you realize what relaxation actually means to you.
  • Add outdoor décor water features to your sanctuary garden – Remember, the whole purpose of your sanctuary garden should be to help you get away from the daily stress of life. To best achieve this is by including one or more water features as the sound of water really calms and stimulates senses.
  • Attract Nature – Nothing is more calming than a song of a bird. Thus, add plants, native and non-native to the area where you live to attract birds and butterflies and create a real outdoor sanctuary.
  • Add sentimental pieces of furniture – Did you know that outdoor decor furniture and accessories can actually evoke nostalgic memories. For example, a porch swing may bring you back to the times when you were sitting hugged with your dad; a stone lantern to your first kiss. Add few such pieces to create an absolute feeling of comfort and relaxation.

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With your own sanctuary getaway, you will not only relax but will find yourself being more concentrated and able to handle the stress of your daily activities successfully. Taking a moment to actually feel the smell of roses, or to listen to a bird singing or even enjoying a beautiful sunset, will make you less anxious and help you consider what really matters in life.

People say “imitation is the sincerest form of flattery”. And while the fact that someone wants to be like you may flatter you, when it comes to shopping, imitation is nothing more than a hoax. Simply said, it is fraud. This particularly applies to antiques. When you are sold an antique item claimed to be a genuine vintage, you don’t question it, right? But what if it turns out to be just a very good imitation? Would you be flattered or upset? My guess is, you’ll leaning more towards furious and disappointed. That is why it is always good to to do some research before you start visiting antique shops. Also, knowing the terms used in antique shops (brick and mortar and online), will help you know the difference between a genuine piece and a counterfeit.

antiques

Shopping Tips

Just as you would do a research if you were buying a property, it is essential to do your homework when shopping for antiques as well. This includes learning the antique language (what is collectible, reproduction, repro, etc.); talking to antique collectors and dealers; read books, magazines and catalogs; and visiting auctions and reputable antique shops. Remember, the more you know about antiques and history of certain pieces, the less likely you are to pay for a counterfeit piece. Before you buy any antique ask questions:

  • How long has the the antique dealer been in the business?
  • Is he/she a member of any antique-related organization?
  • What antiques and historical period does he/she specializes in, if any?
  • Does an antique dealer carry reproduction and does he/she offer restoration and repair services?
  • Is the dealer 100% sure an item is genuine and what is the criteria used to determine item’s authenticity?
  • Is the dealer willing to give you a written guarantee of item’s authenticity? If not, question the price or move on.
  • How does an antique dealer decides on a price of certain antique?

If you choose to buy antiques online, make sure you:

  • Ask for pictures of the item taken from every angle. Make sure you highlight you want close-ups and not some blurry photos. This way you will be able to better determine item’s authenticity and value.
  • Ask the seller if he’ll allow you to buy an item, have it inspected and decide whether you want to keep it or not. Most antique sellers and antique shops will allow it, but only if you, in case you do not want an item, return it within certain period of time.
  • Ask for a written receipt and guarantee.
  • Ask about return and shipping policy, shipping cost and package type.

Regardless of whether you decide to buy antiques online or from antique shops, make sure you get a receipt from the seller. The receipt should include information on the seller (name, address, contact phone), item description (price paid, historical era, age, and if any restoration or repair has been done).

Auctions offers an abundance of valuable Chinese antiques from different historic periods and regions, which is why many collectors and admirers of Oriental style choose to buy such items at auctions only. Not only because of better selection, but because of guaranteed authenticity and good price.

Modern auctions required all bidders to be registered with the auctioneer before bidding starts. The registration is basically obtaining a number which helps identify buyers at an auction. This number is usually printed on a white card and attached to a small handle and is used to attract auctioneer’s attention by raising the number when wanting to place a bid on certain item.

Steps-to-Buying-Antiques-At-Auctions

Auctions can be a great place to buy various Chinese antiques, however preparation is the key to success. If you are unfamiliar with the whole process, here are step-by-step instructions.

  • Always take a close look at the antique piece before bidding. Check the pieces thoroughly for any signs of damage prior to raising your number.Note: if you learn the piece is damaged after you’ve bought it, there is no coming back. There are no returns and exchanges at auctions.
  • Get a catalog from the auctioneer and mark the lot numbers of the pieces you intend on bidding. This ensures that there will be no mistake made in the heat of the bidding process.
  • Do your homework beforehand. It is essential you do a comprehensive research. This way you will have a better idea about market prices and if your expectations are realistic. Also, find out the reverse price of the piece you are interested in. If the piece is in your price range, know exactly how much you want to pay for it and stick to your budget. Keep in mind that most auctions normally add 10 to 15 percent to the hammer price.
  • Try not to get nervous during the bidding process. With all the excitement and thrill of a live auction, it is easy to get sidetracked and make a mistake such as overbidding on a certain item.
  • Be prepared to pay for your items immediately after the action and to remove your purchases from the auction houses as soon as possible. Most of them require items to be removed within 48 hours.

By following the above steps you will surely find bidding an enjoyable experience. However, if not completely prepared for such adventure, get your antiques at any better supplied and reputable Chinese Antiques Melbourne store. Ask for references or browse online for trustworthy Chinese Antiques Melbourne dealers to ensure genuine items.