Sometimes “fake” is fine in the world of collectors.There are examples of “faux” marble made from plain white marble with a skillfully painted marblelike pattern. One of the most interesting uses of substitute materials dates from the late-19th century. Asian ideas influenced designers then, and bamboo furniture became popular.
Bamboo is soft and flexible, not strong enough for large, heavy pieces, so some American makers began to make faux bamboo from bird’s-eye maple. Bedroom sets that included beds, dressers, small side tables and washstands looked like bamboo charcoal products but actually were maple.
A top-quality furniture company, R.J. Horner of New York, sold many of these sets to upper-class New York City families. This well-made furniture is a bargain today, lower in price than it was five years ago.
Many of the posters included specially-designed type styles that had strangely-shaped letters of different sizes made to fill the space around the other designs. Some were done with fluorescent paint so they glowed under a blacklight. The posters are scarce today because most eventually were discarded. Search your mother’s attic. You may find some of your posters, and even in poor condition they sell for hundreds of dollars or more.
Every Royal Doulton figurine in the huge Harry Nixon series, introduced in 1913, was given an HN number. Nixon (1886-1955) was in charge of the figure-painting department at Royal Doulton’s factory in Burslem, Staffordshire, England. Each of your figurines, if in perfect condition, would sell for about $100 to $300 today.
Instruments meant for export to the U.S. had to be marked with the country of origin after 1891. Beginning in 1957, the words “copy of” were added to labels on some of these violins. Today, some manufacturers make violins using modern techniques that replicate Stradivari’s work and sell for high prices. But most “Stradivarius” violins are poor imitations and don’t sell for much. Prices depend on quality, and range from $50 to $500.
Current prices are recorded from antiques shows, flea markets, sales and auctions throughout the U.S. Prices vary in different locations because of local economic conditions.
Esso Gas & Oil pop gun, fabric pops out that says “Just as Sure as Shootin,’ ” pictures Esso station attendant on both sides, five-digit phone number, 1951, 4 3/4 x 71/2 inches, $50.
Bride’s dress for American Character Toni doll, tulle and taffeta with lace, rosettes on front, white satin cap headpiece with faux pearls, 1950s, fits 20-inch doll, $75.
Waterford crystal water pitcher, Lismore pattern, diamond-and-wedge cut, marked, 6 1/2 x 4 inches, $110.
Lenox “First Waltz” porcelain figurine, long red-and-white dress with large, puffy sleeves, pearl choker necklace, holding feather fan, 8 1/2 inches, $160.
Snow White china tea set, transfers of Snow White and Seven Dwarfs, teapot, sugar, creamer, six cups, saucers and dessert dishes, box, Walt Disney Enterprises, Japan, 1937, $515.
Terry Kovel answers as many questions as possible. By sending a letter with a question, you give full permission for use in the column. We cannot guarantee the return of any photograph, but if a stamped envelope is included, we will try. Write to Kovels, The News-Times, King Features Syndicate, 300 W. 57th St., New York N.Y. 10019.