Buying antiques takes time in spotting fakes<\/p>\n
JAKARTA (JP): No fail-safe rules prevail on how to buy
\nantiques and, more importantly, how to spot a fake. Even the most
\nseasoned dealers have fallen victim to paying high prices for
\ntop-notch reproductions and knockoffs.<\/p>\n
Rule of thumb is buyer beware. Antique collectors and dealers
\nhave recommendations for helping buyers guard against being
\nconned.<\/p>\n
1. Better shop around<\/p>\n
Never buy antiques on impulse. Look around, visit several
\nshops and ask their prices.<\/p>\n
\"Many people become so blinded by their obsession to buy,\"
\nsays long-time collector Widyarto. \"They will be disappointed
\nlater when they learn that they have bought a reproduction.\"<\/p>\n
Take your time and always be on the alert.<\/p>\n
Antique finds are often made when you least expect them.<\/p>\n
\"The real antiques usually come to you,\" says Nasrun, a
\nveteran dealer and owner of a shop on Jl. Ciputat Raya.<\/p>\n
2. Knock on wood<\/p>\n
Dry wood is best for antique furniture. Good quality dry wood
\nhas a dark brown, smooth surface without spots. Inferior will
\nhave specks on the surface. The more spots and rougher the
\nsurface, the poorer the wood.<\/p>\n
Look at the cuts. Real antiques usually have rough cuts
\nbecause chain saws are a modern invention.<\/p>\n
3. All shops are not created equal<\/p>\n
If you want to buy a reproduction, don't go to a gallery; if
\nyou want to buy a limited edition of antiques, don't enter the
\nmass-production shops.<\/p>\n
4. China blues<\/p>\n
Old ceramics are usually deeper and darker in color.<\/p>\n
5. Sound proof<\/p>\n
To test the quality of a ceramic, flick it with your fingers
\nand listen hard. A fine ceramic will produce a low, deep sound. A
\nhigh tone indicates the firing process was imperfect.<\/p>\n
6. Experience counts<\/p>\n
After a while, you will become quite an expert, and will be
\nable to gauge the quality by sight and touch. (07)<\/p>",
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