David Schorsch discusses his early age of collecting and learning. While most kids were reading comic books, this childhood antique prodigy coveted new issues of The Magazine Antiques. David gets into details on what makes something a special piece, whether formal, folk or country. He also talks about some of the finer pieces he has handled over the years. David, along with financial partner Eileen Smiles have beautiful selection available at their Woodbury Connecticut shop and are one of the select dealers at the New York Winter Antiques Show. Check out their website: americanantiqueart.com
3 thoughts on “108. David Schorsch”
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You both hit on some key points that all collectors should understand, esp about fakes, auction houses, and the importance of knowledge and expert advice. One often hears about how unsuspecting buyers make expensive mistakes, but you and David told collectors and would be collectors how to avoid these pitfalls and embark on the happy adventure of collecting and all the learning and friendships that go along with building a collection that adds richness, joy and meaning one’s life and beauty to one’s home. Some of our dearest, most intelligent, and most interesting friends are those we have met through our collecting. Even when we aren’t buying, we continue to follow the new scholarship as it comes out. I also like how David acknowledged the hard work Dealers put into their shows. Makes me want to dash to Woodbury this minute!
While David is a high-end dealer and most of the press these days is devoted to masterpieces and record-breaking sales, there is also great fun — and great value, especially today — to be had at all levels of the market if one buys what one loves. We started out by furnishing our house w/inexpensive antiques because we liked them and at the prices we were paying it didn’t matter if they had condition problems or weren’t the best. David is right that low and mid-level pieces don’t usually appreciate like masterpieces, but new furniture becomes worthless the moment you take it home! Even if we had never graduated beyond the beginner’s level, we would still have enjoyed the “hunt” for our treasures and the experience of living w/beautiful, unique objects. One needn’t collect at the high end to have a great time.
Martin,
Wonderful discussion. First time listening to your podcast and have subscribed. Keep up the excellent work.
Thank you both for your very nice compliments.
Martin