Antique collecting is a fascinating hobby that connects you with history, art, and craftsmanship. Starting an antique collection can be both exciting and rewarding. Whether you are drawn to vintage furniture, old coins, tins, classic jewellery, or rare books, the world of antiques offers endless possibilities. This guide will help you begin your antique collecting journey with confidence and knowledge. Why Start an Antique Collection? Collecting antiques is more than just acquiring old items. It is about preserving stories and appreciating the beauty of objects that have stood the test of time. Many collectors find joy in hunting for unique pieces, learning about their origins, and sharing their passion with others. Starting an antique collection can also be a smart investment. Some antiques increase in value over time, especially if they are rare or in excellent condition. However, the true value lies in the personal satisfaction and connection to history that each piece brings. Before you dive in, it’s important to understand what interests you most. Do you prefer decorative items, practical objects, or something with historical significance? Narrowing your focus will make your collecting journey more enjoyable and manageable. Tips for Starting Antique Collection Starting an antique collection requires patience, research, and a keen eye. Here are some practical tips to help you get started: Educate Yourself Read books, visit museums, and explore online resources about antiques. Understanding styles, periods, and makers will help you identify genuine pieces and avoid fakes. Set a Budget Decide how much you want to spend initially and stick to it. Antique collecting can become expensive, so it’s wise to start small and gradually build your collection. Visit Antique Shops and Fairs Local antique shops, markets, and fairs are great places to find unique items. Talk to dealers and ask questions. They often have valuable insights and can guide you to interesting finds. Inspect Items Carefully Check for signs of authenticity such as maker’s marks, age-related wear, and craftsmanship details. Avoid items that look too perfect or have obvious repairs unless you are knowledgeable about restoration. Join Collectors’ Groups Online forums and local clubs can connect you with experienced collectors. Sharing knowledge and experiences will enhance your understanding and enjoyment. Keep Records Document your purchases with photos, receipts, and notes about the item’s history. This will help you track your collection and its value over time. Antique wooden cabinet with detailed craftsmanship How to Identify Authentic Antiques One of the biggest challenges in antique collecting is distinguishing genuine antiques from reproductions. Here are some key points to consider: Age Indicators Genuine antiques usually show signs of age such as patina, wear in expected places, and minor imperfections. For example, a wooden chair might have worn armrests or faded finish. Materials and Construction Older items were made with different materials and techniques than modern reproductions. Hand-cut dovetails in furniture or hand-blown glass are good signs of authenticity. Maker’s Marks and Labels Many antiques have marks or labels from the maker or manufacturer. Research these marks to verify the origin and date. Provenance Provenance refers to the history of ownership. Items with documented provenance are often more valuable and easier to authenticate. Expert Appraisal When in doubt, seek an expert’s opinion. Professional appraisers can provide detailed assessments and certificates of authenticity. Where to Find Antiques for Your Collection Finding the right antiques is part of the thrill. Here are some popular sources to explore: Estate Sales and Auctions Estate sales often feature a wide range of antiques from a single household. Auctions can offer rare and valuable items but require careful bidding. Antique Shops and Dealers Established dealers usually have vetted items and can offer guarantees. Prices may be higher but the risk is lower. Flea Markets and Car Boot Sales These venues can be treasure troves for collectors willing to hunt. Be prepared to negotiate and inspect items closely. Online Marketplaces Websites like eBay and specialist antique platforms provide access to a global market. Always check seller ratings and request detailed photos. Charity Shops Occasionally, charity shops have hidden gems at affordable prices. Regular visits can pay off. Antique pocket watch with detailed engravings Caring for Your Antique Collection Proper care is essential to preserve the beauty and value of your antiques. Here are some tips: Cleaning Use gentle methods and avoid harsh chemicals. For example, dust wooden furniture with a soft cloth and clean silver with a mild polish. Storage Keep items in a stable environment with controlled temperature and humidity. Avoid direct sunlight and damp areas. Handling Handle antiques with clean hands or gloves to prevent oils and dirt from damaging surfaces. Repairs and Restoration If restoration is needed, consult a professional. Poor repairs can reduce value and damage the item. Insurance Consider insuring valuable pieces to protect against loss or damage. Starting an antique collection is a journey filled with discovery and delight. With careful research, patience, and passion, you can build a collection that tells a story and brings joy for years to come. Remember, every antique has a unique history waiting to be uncovered! For more detailed advice and resources, visit Antique Collecting Guide . Happy collecting!

Antiques hold a special place in our lives, connecting us to the past while enriching our present. These timeless objects are more than just old items; they carry stories, craftsmanship, and cultural significance that modern products often lack. In today’s fast-paced world, where mass production dominates, antiques remind us of quality, history, and individuality. Let’s explore why antiques matter and how they continue to influence our lives. Antiques hold a special place in our lives, connecting us to the past while enriching our present. The Importance of Antiques in Preserving History Antiques serve as tangible links to history. Each piece tells a story about the era it came from, the people who made it, and the culture it represents. For example, a Victorian-era chair is not just furniture; it reflects the design trends, materials, and social customs of the 19th century. By preserving antiques, we keep history alive in a way that books or photographs cannot fully capture. Museums and collectors often use antiques to educate people about different periods. These objects provide insight into daily life, technology, and art from centuries ago. When you own or appreciate antiques, you become a custodian of history, helping to maintain a connection between generations. Victorian-era chair showcasing craftsmanship and history How Antiques Add Value to Modern Living Spaces Incorporating antiques into modern homes adds character and uniqueness. Unlike mass-produced furniture or décor, antiques bring a sense of authenticity and charm. They often feature superior craftsmanship and materials that stand the test of time. For instance, a hand-carved wooden cabinet from the early 1900s can become a stunning focal point in a contemporary living room. Antiques also encourage sustainable living. By reusing and repurposing old items, we reduce waste and the demand for new resources. This eco-friendly approach aligns with growing awareness about environmental responsibility. Here are some practical tips for integrating antiques into your home: Mix antiques with modern pieces to create a balanced look. Use antique mirrors or frames to add elegance. Restore worn antiques to preserve their beauty and function. Choose items that reflect your personal style and interests. Antique brass lamp blending with contemporary interior design The Economic and Emotional Value of Antiques Antiques often appreciate in value over time, making them smart investments. Unlike many modern goods that depreciate quickly, well-maintained antiques can increase in worth due to rarity and demand. Collectors and enthusiasts seek out unique pieces, which can lead to profitable sales or auctions. Beyond financial benefits, antiques carry emotional value. They can be family heirlooms passed down through generations, holding memories and sentimental significance. Owning such items creates a sense of continuity and belonging. This emotional connection often inspires people to care for antiques meticulously, preserving them for future generations. How to Start Collecting Antiques: Practical Advice If you’re interested in antiques, starting a collection can be rewarding and enjoyable. Here are some actionable steps to guide you: Research - Learn about different types of antiques, styles, and periods. Books, online resources, and antique fairs are great places to start. Set a Budget - Antiques vary widely in price. Decide how much you want to invest initially. Visit Antique Shops and Markets - Explore local shops, markets, and auctions to see what’s available. Inspect Items Carefully - Check for authenticity, condition, and any repairs or restorations. Ask Questions - Don’t hesitate to ask sellers about the history and provenance of items. Start Small - Begin with affordable pieces and gradually expand your collection. Join Communities - Connect with other collectors and experts for advice and support. Collecting antiques is not just about acquiring objects; it’s about appreciating craftsmanship and history. The Role of Antiques in Cultural Identity and Sustainability Antiques contribute to cultural identity by preserving traditional crafts and designs. Many antiques showcase regional styles and techniques that might otherwise be lost. For example, a handwoven rug from a specific area tells a story about local artisans and their heritage. Moreover, antiques promote sustainability. In a world increasingly concerned with environmental impact, antiques offer an alternative to disposable consumerism. By valuing and maintaining antiques, we reduce the need for new production and help conserve resources. Incorporating antiques into daily life encourages mindful consumption and respect for the past. This approach fosters a deeper appreciation for quality and longevity. Embracing Antiques for a Richer Future Antiques matter because they connect us to our roots, enrich our environments, and promote sustainable living. They remind us that beauty and value can endure through time. Whether you are a seasoned collector or simply appreciate the charm of an old object, antiques offer something unique and meaningful. By embracing antiques, we honour craftsmanship, preserve history, and contribute to a more thoughtful way of living. So next time you come across an antique, take a moment to appreciate its story and the importance of antiques in today’s world! Antiques Roadshow

Walking into a dimly lit study — leather-bound volumes stacked high, a heavy oak desk, the faint scent of old paper — and there, shining softly, is a bankers lamp. Not a modern replica or mass-produced homage, but an original piece from the 1920s: a true relic of the Art Deco era. This lamp isn’t just a source of light. It’s a time capsule. The bankers lamp first emerged in the early 20th century under the pioneering design of Harrison D. McFaddin, patented in 1909 under the name “Emeralite.” The classic version combined functionality with elegance: a weighted brass (or metal) base, a gently curved shade — often green glass — and a subtle pull-chain switch. By the 1920s and 1930s, as the world embraced the sleek lines and modern sensibilities of the Art Deco movement, lamps evolved too — some kept the green glass shade, while others adopted metal shades, chrome or brass finishes, and more angular forms reflecting the period’s aesthetic. Why This Lamp Matters — More Than Just Light • A Statement of Style and Era The Art Deco period was all about modernity, glamour, and streamlined elegance. This lamp, with its chrome finish and minimalist lines, encapsulates that spirit — a small but potent example of design history. For lovers of vintage interiors, it’s like owning a piece of the 1920s, a time of transition from ornate Victorian excess toward modernist restraint and industrial confidence. • Functional Design — Beauty Meets Purpose Originally designed for banks, libraries, law offices, and clerical workspaces, bankers lamps offered focused, glare-free light for reading, writing, and bookkeeping — tasks requiring concentration and clarity. The curved shade and downward-directed light minimized eye strain, while the heavy base kept the lamp stable and dependable. Owning an original lamp like this means you’re not just getting a decorative object — you’re getting a piece that was made to perform, and perform well under the rigours of everyday use a century ago. • Authenticity — Original vs. Reproduction There are many “banker-style” lamps on the market today. Some look the part, but lack soul. What sets this lamp apart is that it is an authentic 1920s piece — not a modern re-issue. The wear in the chrome, subtle pitting, patina or tiny imperfections all speak of genuine age and history. As with fine antiques (and as you know well, given your own collection), those little marks aren’t flaws — they’re part of the story. How to Appreciate (and Display) It Today As a centrepiece on a vintage or antique desk. Pair it with dark woods, leather-bound books, or a classic writing set — you recreate the look and feel of a 1920s study or bank office. In a reading or writing nook. With its focused and gentle glow, the lamp makes an ideal companion for late-night reading, letter writing, or sketching. As part of a mixed antiques collection. Given your background as an antique dealer and restorer, this lamp would sit beautifully among other early 20th-century pieces — it harmonizes well with Art Deco, Arts & Crafts, and even late-Victorian furniture. As a photo prop or blog subject. The lamp itself tells a story about design evolution, industrial materials, and early 20th-century working life. Perfect for a post about the history of lighting, office furniture, or the evolution of working environments. Reflections on Time , Light , and Legacy There’s a quiet poetry in owning a lamp like this. It doesn’t shout. It doesn’t demand attention. But when switched on — a soft pool of light glowing across wooden surfaces — it connects you to a moment long passed, where work was done by hand, lighting was modern and hopeful, and design meant long-term quality. For collectors, dealers, history-lovers, and anyone who appreciates objects with personality, the Antique 1920s Art Deco Chrome Bankers Lamp is more than décor: it is history, utility, and elegance in one.

Get a feeling for the objet d'art stuff we sell. View our best selling items and read the customer feedback received from the items new owners. SOLD Antique and Vintage Items with new homes Filter by Category All Silverware Pewter Copper Brass Antique & Vintage China & Porcelain Genuine Antiques Vintage Toys, Games & Collectibles Price £5 £795 Colour 25 cm tall 23 cm wide at bottom tapering to 13 cm Green Sort by Quick View Vintage white large Laura Ashley ornate mirror stunning. Quick View Antique early 20th century art deco bevelled edge unframed mirror with oak back Quick View Vintage Ornate Brass Hand Mirror with Tapestry Back Floral Embroidery & Filigree Quick View Vintage 1950s Anna Gasteiger lithograph signed print poppies and delphiniums !! Quick View Vintage Italian Cranberry Art Glass Lidded Bonbonnière Jaffe Rose Handmade Quick View Vintage Schweppes oak crate probably 1970s original not reproduction old nails!! Quick View Vintage Jacksons of Piccadilly Tea Tin – Deep Green with Heraldic Crest Quick View Antique Victorian gourmet London stoneware handy muff warmer with original lid Quick View Vintage Wesuma Pottery Vase – Hand-Painted – Post-War c1950s-1960s Quick View Vintage Italian Florentine Triple Gilt Photo Frame (c.1950s–1970s) Quick View Vintage Palethorpes Sausages Cardboard Delivery Box (c.1930s–1940s) Quick View Vintage John Mackintosh & Sons Hexagonal Toffee Tin English Village Scene 1930s Quick View Vintage Egyptian Revival Glass Bead – Cobalt Blue Pharaoh (c. 1920s–1940s) Quick View Antique Victorian mid to late 19th century toleware candle box extremely rare!!! Quick View vintage Blow Butter Churn, made in England around the 1940s to 1950s. Quick View Vintage Huntley & Palmers “Noddy with Mr & Mrs Tubby” Biscuit Tin – Enid Blyton Quick View Vintage 1960s/ 70s Ballanoff Kitchen Maid cake tin Quick View Vintage 1950s Monte Carlo rally tin plate car Quick View Antique early 20th century art nouveau biscuit or handkerchief tin stunning Quick View Antique Victorian School Slate with Handwritten Name “Muscutt” (c.1890–1910) Quick View Vintage 1970s Anglepoise 90 desk lamp, with rare Anglepoise label original Quick View Antique Victorian mid 1850s Aston and Mander triangle measure rare !!! Quick View Vintage mid century 1950s onyx small desk barometer fully working fabulous item Quick View Vintage 1950s /60s Defiant radio ( co op wholesale society) amazing condition!! Quick View Vintage All-Bamboo Mah-Jongg Set in Silk-Patterned Case (c.1920s–1940s) Quick View Antique Victorian late 19th century mahogany hand made dovetails etc lidded box Quick View Antique 1890 Leather-Bound The Poetical Works of Robert Burns Frederick Warne Co Quick View Antique early 20th century Nelson's Gelatine Lozenges Tin Quick View Antique Victorian Biscuit Tin with Fruit Still Life Design c.1890–1910 Quick View Antique Victorian architects or drawing tool set Quick View Vintage Elastoplast Boil Dressings Small Red Lidded Tin c. Mid-20th Century Quick View Antique walker and hall silver plate (ep) bowl Load More

Explore our antique and vintage selection of solid silver and silver plated items, copper, brass, pewter and other precious metal vintage items SILVERWARE and other precious metals Where can you buy Victorian silver antiques? Our antique and vintage collection features a wide range of solid silver and silver plated items as well as copper, brass, pewter and other precious vintage metal items, each with its own unique history. These classic pieces are perfect for adding a touch of sophistication to any room in your home. Explore our selection to find the perfect one-of-a-kind addition to your collection. #stufftoyouandme Filter by Category All Vintage Toys, Games & Collectibles Vintage Artwork Paintings Wall Art Vintage Glassware & Vases Unique Antique & Vintage Collectibles Antique & Vintage China & Porcelain Vintage Furniture & Home Decor Seasonal Antique & Vintage Gifts Jewellery Fashion and Accessories Antique Ceramics & Pottery New Antique & Vintage Arrivals Price £6 £245 Sort by Vintage job lot of items including golf shoe horn spoons gas burner valve etc Price £10.00 + Postage Add to Cart Vintage Silver-Plated Mustard / Condiment Pot with Spoon glass liner missing Price £28.00 + Postage Add to Cart Vintage Silver-Plated Beaker / Trophy Cup with Ellesmere Crest Price £28.00 + Postage Add to Cart Antique Vintage Wembley 1925 Souvenir Propelling Pencil – FA Cup Final Era Price £38.00 + Postage Add to Cart Vintage silver plated/Chrome Toast Rack with Loop Handle – c.1930s–1940s Price £38.00 + Postage Add to Cart Antique/ vintage collection of silver/ silver plate spoons and a fork hallmarks Price £15.00 + Postage Add to Cart Antique Edwardian early 20th century Mappin and Webb five silver plated forks Price £42.00 + Postage Add to Cart Antique silver plate Wall Pocket / Torchère with Pierced Gallery car posey Price £89.00 + Postage Add to Cart Antique Brass Heart-Shaped Padlock with Key – Late 19th / Early 20th Century Price £38.00 + Postage Add to Cart Antique Victorian 1882 silver top ribbed glass dressing table jar hat pins etc ? Price £48.00 + Postage Add to Cart Antique Edwardian Lace & Embroidered Vanity Tray Gilt Metal Dressing Table Tray Price £85.00 + Postage Add to Cart Set of Four Antique Brass Napkin Rings – Late Victorian Edwardian Tableware Price £30.00 + Postage Add to Cart Antique 1917 silver top Birmingham cut crystal small dressing table jar Price £28.00 + Postage Add to Cart Vintage Figural Cherub Spoon | Putti Handle | Ornate Decorative / Bonbon Spoon Price £24.00 + Postage Add to Cart Vintage Hollywood Regency Mirrored Serving Tray with Ornate Silver Rococo Edges Price £75.00 + Postage Add to Cart Vintage sherry decanter hanging label possibly silver but no hallmarks Price £24.00 + Postage Add to Cart Vintage Wahl Eversharp Gold-Filled Propelling Pencil Engine-Turned Mid Century Price £28.00 + Postage Add to Cart Vintage early to mid 20th century silver plate ( no hallmarks) 6 toast rack Price £28.00 + Postage Add to Cart Antique Victorian late 19th or early 20th century walker and hall silver plate Price £24.00 + Postage Add to Cart Antique Victorian or Edwardian Ruby Red Art Glass Comport with Ornate Metal Base Price £85.00 + Postage Add to Cart Vintage may be older cobalt blue glass and brass lid desk ink well heavy item Price £48.00 + Postage Add to Cart Vintage small metal pill box with opaline or possibly mother of pearl lid Price £15.00 + Postage Add to Cart Vintage small metal brass/ silvered pill box with hand painted bird lid Price £18.00 + Postage Add to Cart Antique Edwardian 1907 silver top Birmingham RB & M Blackinton & Millard Price £48.00 + Postage Add to Cart Popular Articles Read More Begin Your Antique Collecting Journey: Starting Antique Collection Tips Starting an antique collection can also be a smart investment. Some antiques increase in value over time, especially if they are rare or in excellent condition. However, the true value lies in the personal satisfaction and connection to history that each piece brings. The Happy Antiquer The Importance of Antiques: Why Antiques Matter in Today’s World Antiques matter because they connect us to our roots, enrich our environments, and promote sustainable living. They remind us that beauty and value can endure through time. Whether you are a seasoned collector or simply appreciate the charm of an old object, antiques offer something unique and meaningful. By embracing antiques, we honour craftsmanship, preserve history, and contribute to a more thoughtful way of living. So next time you come across an antique, take a moment t The Happy Antiquer A Glow From the Past: The Allure of a 1920s Art Deco Bankers Lamp Owning an original lamp like this means you’re not just getting a decorative object — you’re getting a piece that was made to perform, and The Happy Antiquer

Shop for antique and vintage jewellery, trinket boxes and accessories to meet all tastes and budgets. JEWELLERY Trinket Boxes and Fashion Accessories Our vintage collection of jewellery, trinket boxes and accessories includes antique, vintage, and collectible items that you won't find anywhere else. We carefully handpick each piece to make sure it meets our high quality standards so you can own a unique and timeless piece of history. Whether you're a collector or simply looking for a special piece, our selection of vintage jewellery and accessories won't disappoint. #stufftoyouandme Filter by Category All Silverware Pewter Copper Brass Antique & Vintage China & Porcelain Vintage Glassware & Vases Unique Antique & Vintage Collectibles Vintage Furniture & Home Decor Seasonal Antique & Vintage Gifts Antique Ceramics & Pottery New Antique & Vintage Arrivals Price £8 £395 Sort by Antique Vintage Wembley 1925 Souvenir Propelling Pencil – FA Cup Final Era Price £38.00 + Postage Add to Cart Antique Victorian 1882 silver top ribbed glass dressing table jar hat pins etc ? Price £48.00 + Postage Add to Cart Vintage Snelgrove & Marshall Floral Hat / Storage Box (Octagonal) – Chintz Print Price £38.00 + Postage Add to Cart Vintage Newfoundland Pewter Dolphin Brooch Pin – Mother & Calf Sea Life Price £28.00 + Postage Add to Cart Vintage Silver & Abalone Shell Oval Brooch (Marked 825/835 Silver) Price £24.00 + Postage Add to Cart Vintage Mother of Pearl & Abalone Starburst Brooch / Pendant (Convertible) Price £24.00 + Postage Add to Cart Vintage silver toned ( silvered and probably pewter) leaf pin brooch Price £18.00 + Postage Add to Cart Vintage Wahl Eversharp Gold-Filled Propelling Pencil Engine-Turned Mid Century Price £28.00 + Postage Add to Cart Vintage small metal pill box with opaline or possibly mother of pearl lid Price £15.00 + Postage Add to Cart Vintage small metal brass/ silvered pill box with hand painted bird lid Price £18.00 + Postage Add to Cart Antique Edwardian 1907 silver top Birmingham RB & M Blackinton & Millard Price £48.00 + Postage Add to Cart ANTIQUE AND VINTAGE Create the rustic look with our vintage home decor START NOW