This is an 18th century Chinese belt hook in white jade. It is of fine quality and in a material that is highly sought after. Ten years ago worth £500, now worth £5000.


This vase is Chinese and 19th century and is an example of where prices have risen dramatically over the last few years due to the strength of the Chinese buyers. Ten years ago it would be worth £500, now it is worth £2000.


Here is a classic example of how even fine quality antique furniture has dropped in price. A Regency sideboard such as this would have been worth £2000 ten years ago, now worth £200.


properties featured are often decorated with antique furniture and objects. To use the old with the new shows they are not mutually exclusive. A blend of contemporary designs and colours with antiques that have been brought up to date, for example a chair re-covered with a modern fabric, will create an interior which is unique, stylish and comfortable. Of course you don’t have to limit your antique purchasing to furniture, there is a wealth of unique decorative objects


available, which selected carefully will enhance any contemporary environment. For example, a nineteenth century Chinese porcelain vase with a simple blue monochrome glaze will look stunning on a contemporary painted side table.


Antiques as investments- quality, quality, quality.


This mahogany chest on chest is late 18th century and not particularly good quality. Ten years ago it was worth £1500 now it would struggle to sell for a quarter of that. Fine quality examples have retained more of their value but have still seen significant falls.


No one can claim that antique furniture has proved to be a good investment over the last 20 years but prices have now fallen to a level where they represent exceptional value for money. As with all collecting fields the very best items have soared in price


20/20 Finance & Investment Page 87


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