Philadelphia Antiques Show 2022

99 THE PH I LADE L PH I A SHOW Tim Martin of S. J. Shrubsole, New York, NY: Shrubsole has been an exhibitor since 1969 “With the advent of the internet, we’ve learned that things we used to think of as fantastically rare are in reality more commonly found. Subsequently, prices on those items have come down. As an example, in 1993 a George III period teapot seemed like a unique and worthwhile find. Today, however, a google search will show that it is a more readily available object which decreases its value. In contrast, an early 16th century Elizabethan object can be verified as exceptionally valuable because its rarity can be confirmed. Thus, prices on those items have risen accordingly. My stepfather (who ran the business before Tim joined the firm) would say ‘back in the day you could wear out five pair of shoes walking around Paris or London to verify an item’s availability’. Today you simply need to spend a few hours on the internet. One of my favorite acquisitions at the show was a large square Paul de Lamerie 18th century salver. It was a great find.”