Most people fail not because they lack ability, but because they avoid focus and responsibility. This article explores why distraction, shortcuts, and blame keep people stuck, and why real progress only begins when you accept responsibility, build skills, and commit to disciplined, meaningful work. If you want change this year, it starts with focus — not comfort.
How do you identify genuine Minton majolica? This in-depth guide explains how to recognise authentic Victorian Minton majolica, from factory marks and date cyphers to glaze quality, colour palettes, and weight. Based on a real charity shop discovery, this article shares practical dealer insight into spotting real versus reproduction Minton majolica, understanding current values, and caring for these exceptional 19th-century ceramics.
A friendly buying competition across South Wales turned into one of the most memorable antique-hunting days I’ve ever had. What began as a light-hearted collaboration with Kieron of Taliesin Antiques quickly became a full-day journey through antique centres and charity shops, uncovering exceptional pieces that most people would have walked straight past.
Among them was a monumental late-19th-century Ottoman copper ewer — standing over 32 inches tall — discovered quietly sitting in an antique centre for just £80. Unconverted, richly patinated, and constructed from more than a dozen hand-joined sections, it represents the kind of craftsmanship and survival rarely seen in today’s decorative market.
This article explores how that single moment of recognition turned a £72 purchase into one of my most important finds, while also offering practical insight into identifying genuine Ottoman metalwork, caring for historic pieces, and understanding why untouched examples like this continue to matter to collectors and historians alike.
This article exposes the real dangers of relying on Facebook antique experts, through two shocking case studies: a valuable Yixing teapot dismissed as fake and a hand-painted Chinese charger written off as worthless. It shows how arrogance and misinformation online can cost collectors thousands — and why real expertise still matters.
Selling antiques doesn’t require fast turnover to be profitable. This article explains why a 0.18% daily sell-through rate can outperform high-volume eBay selling once you remove marketplace fees, control your pricing, and keep 99% of each sale through your own website.
Discover the timeless elegance of Saint-Louis Crystal of France, the oldest crystal manufacturer in Europe and a symbol of French luxury since 1586. From royal commissions to contemporary designer collaborations, Saint-Louis combines centuries of craftsmanship with modern artistry. Learn how to identify authentic pieces, explore their history and designs, and understand why these exquisite creations remain among the most collectible and celebrated crystal works in the world.
This article isn’t about shortcuts or overnight success — it’s about the real grind behind building a lasting business. From selling antiques out of a car to running one of the largest privately-owned antique websites in the world, this is a raw, honest look at what it truly takes to build your own empire — with no handouts, no paid ads, and no excuses.
Discover the story behind Germany’s iconic 5 Reichsmark Hindenburg silver coins (1935–1939) — the final true silver issues of the pre-war era. Minted in 0.900 fine silver across six German cities, these coins combine striking artistry, historical symbolism, and lasting bullion value. Learn their full history, mint marks, silver content, and how Germany’s coinage transitioned from precious metal to wartime alloy production.
Renowned for its luminous pâte-de-verre creations, Daum stands at the pinnacle of French art glass, blending sculpture, light, and color into extraordinary works of crystal. From ethereal floral vases to expressive animal forms and decorative masterpieces, each piece is handcrafted using techniques preserved for more than a century. This article explores the legacy, artistry, and collectible appeal of Daum’s glass creations — and why these exquisite sculptures continue to captivate collectors, museums, and design connoisseurs worldwide.
My experience selling through Nigel Ward & Co. auction revealed a series of unexpected issues — from missing listing images and incorrect item descriptions to administrative errors and unclear communication. This article documents what happened before, during, and after the sale, highlighting the importance of accuracy and transparency in auction listings.
