COLLECTING SPODE: TIPS FROM DR. LORI, ANTIQUES EXPERT SEEN ON THE DISCOVERY CHANNEL
We felt so inspired by some of Spode’s newest collections that we reached out to expert antique appraiser DR. LORI VERDERAME to interview her on the tips and advice she has to offer anyone looking to purchase antique pieces like Spode.
Q: Dr. Lori, how long have you been working as an “antique expert?”
Dr. Lori: I hold a Ph.D. in art, antiques, and design and I have decades of experience as a museum director and curator. I am also a star appraiser on the Discovery Channel show Auction Kings where we appraise 20,000 objects each year.
Q: What are most people looking for when they’re purchasing antiques?
Dr. Lori: People are looking to collect antiques that are of superior quality and pleasing design. The finest antiques are typically high quality brand name pieces, like Spode, that are lovely to look at, well made, and timeless. I know that these are the antiques that will increase in value over time and increase the décor of a home, too.
Q: Do you have any tips to offer someone who wants to start collecting antique dinnerware, like Spode?
Dr. Lori: Whether you like traditional or contemporary designs, look for dinnerware that is made well and will make your guests sit up and take notice. Quality and good taste go hand in hand or dish in dish!
One easy way to ensure you are getting authentic antiques of high quality is to collect sets (yes, plural—you always need more than one) by a famous maker. It’s just like diamond earrings, two are better than one!
Collect antique dinnerware that you plan to both use and display. For instance, the famous Spode Christmas Tree dinnerware set is a mainstay at holiday time. It is strong enough to use throughout the holiday season and decorative for those homes where displaying collections is important. Collect china that you want to show off!