In looking at the results of the Jeffrey S. Evans auction in late November I was astounded by some of prices southern pieces brought. Southern genres are not in my wheelhouse, and I do not keep informed about the present market for them. Obviously, some collectors value them highly and were willing to dig deep into their wallets to get what they considered coveted pieces.
I found the auction an object (no pun intended) lesson in the importance of collectors knowing the market for the furniture, accessories, paintings and the like that they seek. If a collector does not, he risks overpaying on the one hand and missing bargains on the other. There is of course a third alternative – paying a fair price for a wonderful addition to a collection. Knowing the market also lets collectors work with dealers who also have such knowledge, not gouging collectors with unrealistic high asking prices for their wares.
Caveat emptor (buyer beware) should be a watchword for all collectors. They need to do their own due diligence as best they can. The Evans auction brought that home to me once more.
Come Collect With Me 