Visited an auction today to preview items of interest. One basket cited in the printed catalogue as in “excellent condition” wore a vertical tear measuring over 2″ in length! An astute appraiser would cite its condition as “poor”. Can you imagine what you would feel like, had you bid on it as though it was in excellent condition, once it was delivered to your home?
Please request condition reports in writing when you cannot personally inspect items to be auctioned or hire a representative to examine them on your behalf.
As an art appraiser with an eye for detail, this examination service is provided for the nominal fee of $20 per item if the sale is held within 25 miles from the office or if I am planning to attend a sale held elsewhere. Closeup images of the problem areas can be photographed to further clarify any commentary.
Corinne Cain of www.SavvyCollector.com