Antique Roadshow star to host ARC Appraisal Day
Popular Antiques Roadshow appraiser Peter Curran will again host the fifth annual Antique Appraisal Day event to benefit The Animal Refuge Center on Saturday, Jan. 21.
The event will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Fort Myers. For $25, you can bring any two items to be appraised.
In the past, patrons have had appraisals in the tens of thousands of dollars. They bring everything from jewelry to clocks, fine art and other items. Last year, a local man brought a collection of vintage beer cans he had as decorations in his barn, to learn they were worth hundreds of dollars each.
The event benefits ARC, the area’s largest no kill animal shelter.
“Right now, we are taking care of over 450 animals,” said ARC Treasurer Betty Hughes. “It’s still a day-to-day challenge to provide for that many animals in need.
“It’s one of my favorite events,” she added. “Everyone has that little brooch inherited from a beloved family member, or some other unique item. They cherishes it for sentimental value but are always curious about the financial value.”
She recalled a few different items that brought high values.
“There was hair comb from Brazil that was worth several thousand, and a silver tea set that was appraised extremely high in value.”
Curran has been hosting the event for the last five years.
“I’m a local resident,” he said. “I live on Sanibel and in Westport, Conn.”
Last year, he appraised a painting worth more than $10,000 for a Southwest Florida resident.
Curran will be joined by respected area appraisers including Jane De Lisser, who has a 13 year history as a local independent appraiser. She appraises art and antiques, and has worked with both the famed Christie’s and Sotheby’s.
Henry Eckert also will be on hand. He specializes in 19th and early 20th century artwork, and has a private gallery in the area.
“I’m excited to expand our venue to include more jewelry appraisers this year,” said Hughes.
They include Brad and Colbi Congress from Bradley’s Jewelers. Brad is also a certified gemologist, and they both specialize in estate jewelry as well as contemporary.Last year, there was a huge crowd right at the opening.
“It is from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., so we recommend staggered arrival times,” said Hughes. The appraisers spend time talking to patrons individually about these pieces, which makes it even more special experience.
“We deeply appreciate all the time and skills of our appraisers.”
You can bring as many items as you like with two item appraisals for $25. “The appraisal fee benefits ARC 100 percent,” she said.
The Crowne Plaza Hotel is in Fort Myers at 13051 Bell Tower Dr.ARC itself is located behind the Lee Civic Center at 18011 Old Bayshore Rd., and has more than 450 animals available for adoption now.
Call 731-3535 to make an appointment to see the animals.
For more information on the event, call 841-0810.