Antiques have seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years, propelled by television shows that have made the once-old-fashioned world of antiquities trendy and accessible to a broader audience. From the casual enthusiast to the dedicated collector, antiques now captivate every generation and social class alike.
But what is it about the world of antiques that draws us in? Part of the charm lies in the dream of uncovering hidden treasure—something many of us have heard of, seen, or even experienced ourselves: that moment when a seemingly ordinary object is revealed as a valuable item with a rich history.
A prime example of this phenomenon occurred in 2010, when a vase, long kept atop a bookcase in a modest home, sold for an astounding £53 million at auction. The sale marked one of the most expensive antiques in history. The real mystery? How this item, once part of an 18th-century royal collection in Beijing, found its way into a semi-detached house in Pinner, England.
Equally fascinating is the way antiques have evolved and been influenced by the world around them. Over the centuries, everything from religion and law to fashion, taxes, and even royal affairs has impacted the creation and popularity of antiques.
To truly appreciate the magic of antiques, it’s essential to understand them in the context of their time. The Victorian era, for instance, was one of the most eclectic in terms of style—a forerunner to the diverse and multi-dimensional world we know today. Fueled by the dreams, passions, and personalities of individuals, Victorian-era jewellery reflects the public love story of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. The emotional journey is evident in the evolution of sentimental jewellery during their marriage, followed by the mourning pieces after Albert’s death, and ultimately, a return to symbols of hope and renewal.
This emotional connection to material culture continued into the 20th century, with movements like Arts & Crafts, Art Nouveau, and Art Deco. Each style was deeply influenced by the prevailing social and political climates of their respective eras—whether as a reaction to industrialization, a return to craftsmanship, or the celebration of post-war excess and freedom.
One of the most enduring legacies of these movements is glass, a material that has revolutionized the world over thousands of years. The oldest known glass, dating back 4,500 years to ancient Egypt, underscores glass’s enduring value and versatility. Yet, identifying antique glass can be a complex task. How can one distinguish a 300-year-old wine glass from a modern replica?
Similarly, while porcelain and ceramics are often marked with maker’s stamps, differentiating between an authentic piece, a reproduction, or a fake can be tricky. Identifying materials—such as recognizing walnut wood over oak, or distinguishing between real pearls and simulations—requires a trained eye and an understanding of the history behind each piece.
The Victorian era was also marked by ‘revival’ styles, where craftsmen paid homage to the best of past designs. For example, how can you tell an authentic 12th-century Gothic chest from a 19th-century Gothic revival piece? Such questions are central to the thrill of collecting antiques, as they invite exploration and constant learning.
Today, the antique world continues to evolve, with trends that reflect the global nature of our interconnected world. Glass remains undervalued compared to other styles, while Arts & Crafts, Art Nouveau, and Art Deco continue to capture collectors’ hearts. Meanwhile, patriotic antiques—items from countries like China, Japan, Russia, and Israel—are gaining popularity, as many antiques make their way “back home.”
What’s more, today’s retro pieces are destined to become tomorrow’s vintage collectibles, which, in turn, may one day join the ranks of true antiques, continuing to live on in our homes and hearts.
For those interested in exploring the fascinating world of antiques, Kilcreggan Antiques offers a wide selection of items spanning centuries, from the 12th century to the modern day. The shop, open Thursdays through Sundays, features jewellery, decorative items, art, and a variety of quirky collectibles—perfect for both personal indulgence and thoughtful gift-giving.
