With 30 years of resale under my belt, I’m the guy when friends need a quick analysis. And over the years I’ve noticed something that happens over and over again: Antiques that many people consider valuable are often useless, and the things they want to throw away are often hot collectibles.
Here’s why: Most of us get our idea of what’s important from our parents. But markets are changing, and new collectors have different tastes.
What neglected treasures are hidden in your home right now? The answers may surprise you. In this series, we’ll explore the hottest collections you may already have.
1. Cathrineholm enamelware
Cathrineholm enamelware was made in Halden, Norway, between 1907 and 1972. The company’s line of dishes, trays, tea kettles and other kitchen items were very popular during the mid-century period. Bold colors and simple yet bold designs (like the lotus pattern pictured above) capture mid-century elegance at its peak.
Cathrineholm enamelware pieces were shipped around the world and most likely brought back as souvenirs during family trips abroad. I’ve noticed that they are more common in parts of the US that have cultural ties to Scandinavia (ie, the Midwest and the Pacific Northwest).
The most common symbol is the Old English “C” style with “Cathrineholm of Norway” around it. Chip-free orange and red pieces sell best.
Recently on eBay, this four-piece bowl and plate set sold for $200, and this Cathrineholm teapot sold for $168.50.
2. Illustrations by Lisa Larson
Born in 1931, Lisa Larson spent five years studying ceramics in Gothenburg, Sweden, before joining the design team at the Gustavsberg Porcelain Factory. He was handpicked for the role by none other than Stig Lindberg, an icon of post-war Swedish design who worked in all media including ceramics, glass, and textiles.
During Larson’s tenure at Gustavsberg, he created a cartoonish world full of funny animals and rounded human figures. His figures were approachable and likable, appealing to collectors of all ages who appreciate new design and vision.
Larson’s maker’s mark comes in a variety of forms including embossed stamps, embossed or handwritten glossy signatures, and paper labels. Look for these keywords: Lisa Larson, Lisa L. or LL paired with Gustavsberg, Sweden. Sometimes his tag appears with an image of an anchor.
On eBay, this Lisa Larson cat sculpture sells for $160, and this early hippo sculpture sells for $249.99. Prices are comparable on Etsy, where this Larson clay vase is listed for $156.40.
3. Create horses
These brightly painted wooden horses have become a national symbol of Sweden – and a treasured collection around the world.
In the late 1920s, the brothers Nils and Jannes Olsson took up the age-old art of carving and painting figurative horses made from pieces of scrap wood. It was a way to pass the time during the long Swedish winter and provide cheap toys for the village children.
Over time, the work of the brothers set a new standard for carving horses in Dala, and a factory dedicated to this work was opened in their hometown of Nusnas, Sweden.
Original pieces are often marked with an oval label that reads, “Nils Olsson, Hemslojd, Nusnas, Sweden.” (For those who want to know about the language, the word hemslojd Translate to “handicraft” in English.)
Today, the classic Dala horses made by Nils Olsson can be “trade horses” for decent money — especially the larger pieces (10 inches long or longer). Despite minor damage, this 10-inch white horse recently sold for $250 on eBay and this 14-inch orange Dala sold for $159.39.
Scandinavian roots
This installment’s hot collectibles all trace their roots back to Scandinavia, a part of the world that has contributed to high design for decades.
When I appraise antiques or buy jewelry for fun, anything marked “Made in Norway” (or Sweden, or Denmark) is scrutinized. IKEA aside, the region is known for producing well-designed and well-built products. Without any other information, the “made” mark is usually the first sign of quality. And with digital tools like Google Lens, it’s easy to get the whole story of an object.
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