Q & A with the Antique Detective

Q. This child's highchair has been in my family since 1903. Original finish and no tray. I am interested in the history since the carving on the back looks like an old English court jester. We think it is oak and would like a value. K.T. ­ Kittanning, PA

A. Your highchair is known as pressed back and is oak. There were many different designs pressed into the chairs and tables. The most elaborate highchairs can sell for $500 complete in a shop. Highchairs similar to yours sell for around $150 in shops.

Q. I inherited this marble statue, originally purchased at a Mellan estate auction. It is a white marble bust, 22" high. On the back it says, "A Pizza Carrara." The marble pedestal is 39.5 inches high. What is the value? A.R. ­ Kittanning, PA

A. Your charming bust of a young woman was made around the late 19th century and was found in the homes of the wealthy. It could sell at auction for $5,000 or more.

Q. We believe this side chair that belonged to our mom is a Shaker. What do you think? E.H. ­ Kansas City, MO

A. Your chair has all the clues that define a Shaker chair. It appears to have a hickory splint seat, which dates it before 1830. It also has parallel score lines, marking the location of slats and rungs. The round finial identified the colony where it was made. It could sell at auction for several thousand dollars, if authentic. It needs a hands-on examination.

Q. I have a match case that has advertising for a jeweler/watchmaker in Albury, Australia. The watch was made in Newark, N.J., by "The Whitehead and Hoag (or Boag) Co. What is the value? T.A. ­ Valentine, Australia

A. The Whitehead and Hoag Co. opened in Newark, N.J., in 1892. It became world renown for its novelties, originally made in celluloid. While you didn't say it, your match safe is made of celluloid and metals. It would be of interest to collectors of advertising objects and match safes. A shop price could be from $200 up. Historically, the company made the tokens for the New York subway opening.

Q. I have a collection of Norman Rockwell plates in original boxes. I wish to sell them and need the address of the Bradford exchange. C.P. ­ Branchburg, N.J.

A. You can talk to a sales representative at 1-800-323-8078. Have the names of your plates ready. Or write to them at 9333 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago, IL 60714.
 

19th c. marble bust, perhaps $5,000.

Advertising match safe, $200