Whether you recently unearthed a sculpture from your attic or found an old painting at a garage sale, you are probably wondering if the object is worth money. Take the piece to an antique dealer or appraiser after learning what makes art or any other object an antique. This saves both you and the appraiser time, as you might discover the item in question is actually vintage.

What Makes Art Antique?

Age

Age is, not surprisingly, the biggest contributing factor. Antique dealers consider anything more than 100 years old an antique, while any object less than a century old is vintage. The United States created a tax law in 1930 stating items made before 1830 were antique, and included art such as “collections in illustration,” pottery, bronze, porcelain, terra cotta, parian, and marble. Artistic antiquities also fall under this law.

Rarity

Discovering your art piece is one of 15 in the world is a beautiful thing. A rare piece may be one of a few ever produced or one of only several in existence due to destruction or a related issue. Art pieces featuring unusual shapes, colors, subject matters, sizes, and styles also constitute rarities, as do difficult-to-reproduce pieces.

Genuineness

The authenticity of art completes the antique trifecta. Replicas of famous artwork are abundant, and determining the article’s authenticity can prove challenging. The company or artist that made the piece must be verified, as must the artist’s signature if applicable. The piece’s time period needs to be checked as well.

Work with the renowned antique dealers at Forsythe’s Antiques & Fine Art to obtain the expert, reliable appraisals you need. The staff at the Russellville, OH-based company offers more than 125 years of combined experience and proudly serves the greater Cincinnati area. The purveyor of antique furniture, antique lamps, and other exquisite pieces, these antique dealers also provide fine art purchasing and gold buying services. Call (513) 791-2323 today to learn more about antique purchasing services or visit Forsythe’s Antiques & Fine Art online to view their gallery.