One dealer at the Baltimore Antiques show relayed a story about two antique dealers stranded on a deserted island. One day a chair washes ashore and from then on they were both able to make a good living. So is the case when a booth has an item that seems more than familiar. A large seascape by William Trost Richards that was in poor condition when it sold at Doyle Auctions in April was proudly hung in a booth from the Hudson River Valley, obviously having undergone restoration and repair to the frame and canvas. I was present at the auction when it sold for $3,125 including premium. It was offered for $22,000 at the Baltimore show. It makes all the difference being in ready-to-hang condition, however and the retail price for such a large canvas may still present potential for an investment-level purchase.
Urban Art & Antiques 