The Great Escape: Celebrating the Luck of a Find

To my husband, a day spent antiquing is looking for old things that we don’t need. But for me, there is nothing like the thrill of a good find, something that has meant a little or a lot to someone over the years and that is looking for a good home. Given that difference of opinion, antiquing has been a way to escape the familiar and venture out on my own to find treasure that is waiting for me.

For those of you who also enjoy the love of the hunt or just appreciate art and jewelry, this weekend is primetime in nearby Easton, Maryland where the 18th Annual Charity Antiques, Jewelry, & Art Show benefitting the Mental Health Association of Talbot County will be held March 18-20 at the Waterfowl Festival Building, 40 South Harrison St., in Easton.

The show will include:

• An opening night party from  6 to 9 p.m. when guests are provided the first opportunity to view and purchase antiques, jewelry and art, and talk with visiting dealers. The evening also offers cocktails and an hors d’oeuvres buffet. Price is $75 presale and $85 at the door (which includes the show weekend admission).
• Antiques appraisals by appointment from  10 a.m. to  4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. (Guests can learn their antique’s story from experts. Call 410-822-0444 to schedule an appointment. Cost is $30 for two items, $10 for each additional item). 
• A collector's lecture at 5 p.m. Saturday.  “Fake or Genuine? How Anyone Can Spot the Gems among the Junk,” by Dr. Oscar P. Fitzgerald at the Academy Art Museum (for an additional cost).
• A brew tasting party from 6 to 7 p.m. Saturday (by Evolution Craft Brewing Co.).
• A complimentary tea at 2 p.m. Sunday.
• A raffle drawing at 3 p.m. Sunday. (Tickets are $10 or three for $25.)

The appraisal experts for the show are:

C. Robert Harrison of Harrison Appraisals
- specializing in 18th & 19th century antiques and fine art, decorative arts.

Claiborne B. Beall of Beall Appraisal Service
- specializing in antiques, decorative arts, 18th & 19th century furniture, pottery, porcelain, silver, paintings, prints.

Todd Peenstra of Peenstra Antiques Appraisals - 
specializing in fine art and antiques.

For more information or to order tickets for these events, click here.

So, whether you are looking for a new addition to your household or want an item you already own appraised, this weekend offers an excellent opportunity to take to the road and escape to the world of antiquing, even if it is just for the weekend.