subject: Starting Your Japanese Antiques Collection [print this page] Starting Your Japanese Antiques Collection
If you're starting to develop an interest in antiques, you should try to invest in some Japanese antiques. There are so many small items to start with in the Japanese culture, and you will also find several private sellers and shops that focus on the influence. These will jumpstart your collection from scratch and you don't even have to spend much in the beginning until your knowledge and preference in the collection matures.
You can begin with a small item such as Japanese dinnerware, plates, bowls, decors, figurines, chopsticks or a kimono. You can then slowly add more items to the collection. Start with a budget then get 2 to 3 items that you really like to pique your interest and have more goals in the future.
Knowledge and Interest
Since you can virtually collect any type of Japanese antique, you should do your research and increase your knowledge on the several items that will enhance your collection. You can choose to collect just any item for your antique Japanese collection, but other people prefer to simplify their collection and become more specific, such as only collection Samurai or ninja related items, or focusing on kimonos or collecting Japanese art and fans. Once you read about the different aspects of Japanese culture, your vision will improve and you can start focusing on the rare items that will make your collection one of a kind.
Finding the Right Places
You should also start looking for shops, places and sites where you can obtain items for your Japanese antique collection. If you have a local store that focuses on Japanese culture, talk to the owner and get more ideas. Some shop owners usually have many contacts where you can place special orders for rare and unique things. The internet is also very rich in information and sources where you can get affordable and good quality items.
There are online auctions and online marketplaces where you can luckily find rare items at a bargain. These places are also good for trading, for specific collectors. Join online forums then read and create threads to boost your information on the subject, as well as meet other collectors. This will also give you the opportunity to stay updated and possibly get to join inner circles, seminars and conventions. Find experts online and ask relevant questions.
About Value
When looking at Japanese antiques, always consider its value and worth to your collection. There are items that are created in bulk or are made in other countries like China or Taiwan. Over time, you might only be interested in collection one-of-a-kind items or rare pieces that are worth much in the long run. Do not immediately get a thing just because it looks beautiful. You should try to check the history. You might be surprised to get very rare items with a rich background at a very affordable price. Ask about the product, then you too may later on talk about your the stories of each piece in your collection to someone else.
