One of my wife’s relatives collected fine pewter. Unlike some people who are bored with their collections, she bubbled with historical details, the aesthetics, and the utility of the craft. She did what good collectors sharing their obsession should always do: draw you in, teach you, and share the wonder.
The saddest moment for me came after her death when a relative swooped in to corner the collection for sale. His discussions about it were all about how much money it would be worth at auction. Somehow, he had spent much time with her over the years and learned nothing.
I could have offered dissent, but kept quiet. People to whom fine art and craft are reduced to dollar signs are, by and large, unreachable. I know them from craft and boat shows; everything reduces to a dollar sign. curiously I’ve learned that pricing is an issue. A good piece underpriced on display doesn’t sell. Tag five dollars on though, and some people think it’s worth more now. It’s part of why pricing is such a critical part of sales. Price too low, and everyone but the really informed buyer is suspicious.
The action house sold the pewter, the relative was happy with the money, but I retain the memory of wonderful hours spent with tea, hermit pastry, and learning about the dear lady’s passions.
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Ugh. They should have at least asked others if they wanted something of the collection before they put it up for auction. Regardless, the fond memories are more valuable. My great-grandmother had a beautiful tea cup collection, and I would so love to have just one cup and saucer. It, too, was swooped.
I think you are the winner. You still have your sensibilities and appreciation and I’m sure he has long since spent his cash.
Actually, he’s long since dead. He didn’t enjoy it very long.
Good points. This is one bonus reason why I started collecting vacated birds’ nests. I couldn’t imagine anyone fighting over them someday, lol!
Those can be works of art!
They were indeed, Lou! So many different kinds and sizes.. and what fun people had finding and procuring some for me! By the way, I liked your reaction to the pewter-appropriator. I think I might always bear a stink-face for that one, but I’m glad you don’t!
That’s awful, Lou. How callous and ignorant of the relative, to even remove it in the first place let alone dispose of it in such a money-grabbing fashion. I love your ending comments though, and you’re absolutely right. You have the memories and all you learned about the pewter collection, and that’s worth far more.
He didn’t enjoy the spoils for long. He did not enjoy a long life.
Interesting. That makes your side of the story all the more powerful.
You cannot lose the memory; no one can sell it.
That is sad. She must have spent a lot of time keeping the pewter clean
Her and her husband had been planning a retirement antique business, but he died early. She was very practical about things and did not obsess; she just enjoyed. My kids just loved Grandma (actually, their great-grandmother), and I did too.
That is a shame when things don’t go to plan. Sounds like she made the best of the rest of her time