If you want to engage in the old business of antique collecting, you will encounter a lot of new problems in such an era. If you're not prepared, venturing into the industry is a scary thing. But starting from scratch, starting from scratch is still some small advice for you. Note: After that, we will make a full video and post it to the homepage of our channel to share with you.
First, decide what you want to collect?
The first starting point is to decide what type of antique you are interested in, (e.g. porcelain, calligraphy, furniture, bronzes, jade, miscellaneous, etc.) and start there. When we say antiques, we're referring to something older than 100 years old; while the dividing line isn't as strict, anything new can be classified as "antique." However, it's important to be clear about what you want to collect and where to start. Don't be wet and wet with a wide range of options, because you really don't fit to do that in the beginning. Think of the first thing that appeals to you in a museum or TV show is the collection of categories.
Second, accept learning
The antiques industry, like any other industry, is a risk for those who are careless or lucky. So once you've decided which categories you want to collect, learn as much about the category as you can. But more importantly, you must find an industry expert to take you. But the premise is that the connoisseur will not mislead people's children, not teach you to tell stories (tell the story behind the collection). Many of the stories are made up, and the purpose is to bless the collection. You must know that history has no truth. What you have to learn is the excellent introductory knowledge of those theories, don't go astray.
Third, know where to start
Antique markets, antique shops, and even temporary second-hand crap markets in demolished areas are a good place to start. Prices are usually lower than what you'd find in a specialized antique shop or antique market. It's not expensive, but chances are you're lucky, you must know what I mean. The beauty of such a temporary crap market is that even if you end up paying a non-cost-effective fee, you won't spend too much. Even if you buy the wrong one, you need to open your mind and learn from your mistakes. But it is not recommended to go through informal channels online, you know.
Fourth, learn how to identify fakes
It's a very big topic, but here are some tips – there's a lot of common sense in the industry. If someone claims to sell Zhang Zeduan's "Qingming Upper River Map" with zero foundation, you will also give a contemptuous expression. We won't dwell on it here. But you should also look at over-clean antique collections with skepticism.
Smells such as old furniture or calligraphy and painting are also a way to identify. If all you can smell is the chemical gloss on the furniture, then you have to start to doubt. To add a common sense, do you know why the calligraphy and paintings with years should be constant temperature and humidity, and the regular old treasurer will take apprentices to dry paintings? But don't we have to bother with the work of modern painters? Even modern calligraphy and painting works do not even bite insects? You are welcome to let us know in the comments section. After that, we will tell you the answer in the video form in the channel, welcome to focus on our channel update.
Fifth, pay attention to online auctions
Just don't recommend that you go to the informal website to start, but the formal online and offline auction channels you can still pay attention to. It's a big help for you who are just starting out. In fact, each of our provinces has a formal officially certified auction company. This is also a good starting point. Take your time and don't rush it. You're sure to envy the collectors, who are most valuable for their eyesight and experience.
Finally, may you have fun in this industry. If you do pick up a bargain in this business, you must remember not to get too excited; pride comes before you fall. We've made some basic videos of the antique collection, which have been posted on the channel, and welcome your attention and support.