Artful Vintage

by Janie Schriewer 09/08/2019

Are you shopping for art for just the right piece to complete your décor? You'll find a plethora of art at vintage stores and antique malls. Some stalls cater specifically to old paintings, maps, or empty frames, so take a peak in all the kiosks and booths. But know what you're looking at before you go.

Paintings versus prints

It's easy to mistake a print for a painting when it is in an old frame and sold as antique or vintage. Don't misunderstand, a print, especially one known as a hand lithograph, can be quite valuable, and certainly be the perfect choice for your décor, but it's best to know the difference. Paintings have discernable brushstrokes while print reproductions have very tiny dots. Take a good look, up close and personal. The value in the painted art is that it is original. The value in hand lithographs is the work and detail involved. 

Lithographs typically come numbered and not mass-produced. Prints, on the other hand, when mechanically reproduced are less valuable than a lithograph with their evenly spaced dots and uniform color. But a print is still worth purchasing if it fits your décor, just know before you overpay for it.

What if it’s cracked?

Old paint cracks. That's part of its charm and value. The fine web-like cracks have a particular name: craquelure. In no way does craquelure indicate that there is something wrong with your painting. It often denotes your pieces is likely authentic and sought after by collectors.

Should I reframe it?

Original frames and the nails used to hold the painting in the frame and hold the frame together often contain vital information that dates the piece. If the wood has aged or the metal patinaed, that indicates the frame might be older. Often, framers placed a mark, label, or stamp on their work too, so if your frame or backing has such a mark, it might reveal, with a little internet sleuthing, the frame’s age.

What if there isn’t a frame?

While it’s nice to find the perfect piece in the original frame, some art makes its way to vintage shops because of a damaged or broken frame. Don’t be afraid to put an older print in a modern frame for an eclectic look.

Is it authentic?

When shopping at an antique mall or store, try to learn as much about the art as possible. The dealer might have information on where it came from, or how old it is. It may have come as part of an estate sale and could even have accompanying documentation to prove its age and ownership.

If you have the art, but no place to hang it, your real estate professional will happily help you find just the right place to showcase your collection.

About the Author
Author

Janie Schriewer

Welcome to the Janie Schriewer & Associates at RE/MAX Results. Janie just wrapped up her 30th year in the business & over that time has been adapting to the always-evolving Real Estate industry. In recent years she has added 2 members: Her Son Derek—Licensed Buyer & Technology Specialist, and Buyers' associate Melissa Kelley. We are all full-service REALTORS who can assist with selling your home and/or finding you your next home. The added professionals mean potential Clients have more convenience for showings & direct communication with Franklin County areas real estate Leaders. 

Communication is crucial in Real Estate & Janie leads by example for our team as she prides herself on availability to her clients. Whether you prefer texting, phone calls, emails, or instant messaging, Janie Schriewer & Associates can accommodate. Whenever you want to talk to us or work with a REALTOR, the Schriewer’s have the experience & care to offer the right advice for your situation. We know the intricacies of negotiating a deal from the original offer to the signatures at closing as well as alleviating all of the hurdles that may arise in between. We treat you just like family. We care about you and what is best for you. Call Us today. Thank you as always for friends, past clients and customers we love referrals. Talk to you soon.