Collectibles Provenance - Pass It On - By: Jennifer Schill

Provenance is "the origin, or source of an object; history of ownership; or, location of an object". In the art, antiques and collectibles world, provenance often means more monetary value. However, the story behind an object also adds sentimental value and historical value.

Most of us know that an autographed baseball can be worth more money with a verifiable story. A picture to support the story is even better. But, how about something like a cocktail ring with a story? Knowing that your Grandmother's ring came with her when she escaped Nazi Germany may, or may not affect it's monetary value, but it undoubtedly adds to your family history.

My family recently found a ukulele in my Grandmother's basement. Yet, we do not know who, if anyone, played it, much less where it came from. What we wouldn't give for a story, or even a photograph. Let me touch on photographs for a moment. My grandmother had many old photographs. Looking through her collection was fantastic. But, so many had no names, dates, or location. If only we would have thought to get the missing information from her while we had the opportunity. I feel like history was lost with her in this way.

In this digital age we spend loads of time taking posting pictures online. Yet, I keep hearing stories about people losing the only pictures of loved ones they have when cameras are lost or stolen. We may think we are sharing precious moments with everyone, but unless the photos are printed, and tagged, we are possibly, in the end, only sharing with cyberspace.

Back to heirlooms. I am always amazed at the items I see on the Antiques Roadshow that come in with a little note stuck inside about where it came from. Who does that? Someone who cares about their family history is a pretty good bet. Aside from fine art and autographed baseballs, how do I know what will be worth more with provenance? I don't. But, I do know that we can pass on more to the next generation than just "stuff". We can give our heirs a little history with our heirlooms.

I encourage anyone giving, or receiving, family heirlooms to pass on the history as well because Knowing where we came from is a priceless gift.

Provenance is "the origin, or source of an object; history of ownership; or, location of an object". In the art, antiques and collectibles world, provenance often means more monetary value. However, the story behind an object also adds sentimental value and historical value.

Jennifer Schill

My shop: Sugar's Surprises

http://www.rubylane.com/shops/sugarsurprises