One of the most common questions we hear from our clients is, 'Why are antiques so expensive?' The short answer is that antiques are more costly than other home furnishings due to their rarity and intrinsic historical value. Some antiques tell a story; others remind us of our ancestors and may harken back to our cultural roots as well.
Either way, the value of antiques depends on the market (i.e., the item's popularity among collectors) and how hard it is to find in general. After all, if a thing is easy to acquire, can you really call it a genuine antique? Indeed, an authentic antique comes with a higher price tag for several reasons, which we'll discuss below.
You can own a part of the history of humanity and the world, too
When you own an antique that's hundreds of years old, you're literally holding a part of the history of humanity. For some of us, that's reason enough to pay a higher price tag. Still, from a different perspective, Interior design is all about personal preference, and owning a historical item is a great way to accent the furnishings you currently have.
Not only do antiques look fantastic, but they also make for a great conversation piece when you entertain guests. Nothing is as stately and humble as a bronze Buddha sculpture if you have a minimalist theme in your home, or you could go the other direction and choose a piece with a real wow factor, like an exceedingly rare petrified dinosaur egg nest from China.
A great way to appreciate the beauty of cultural diversity
If you've never had the opportunity to travel the world, buying an antique is one way to show your appreciation for cultural diversity. A significant part of buying antiques is the thrill of the hunt, but who has the time to travel to the Far East regularly? So, when you buy a genuine Asian antique, the purchase is the culmination of a journey that is longer than you think.
At our online shop, we carry many items from Asia, which are among the most sought-after antiques we sell. The artistry and craftsmanship of Asian antiques are second to none, and that's a major reason they're desirable as collectibles across the globe.
The craftsmanship is second to none
In our modern-day, we mass-produce everything from smartphones to coffee tables, but there's no craftsmanship in the process. On the other hand, our ancestors insisted upon taking their time to make true works of art. For example, Japanese woodwork is absolutely breathtaking when viewed up close. The meticulous details you find only complement the minor imperfections. Ideally, you want an antique that has stood the test of time, yet some of the best have a minimal amount of wear and tear.
Notwithstanding those reasons, the bottom line is that there's nothing like a genuine antique, as they're so rare and historically valuable, and priced as a result.
