Asia is home to some of the world’s oldest civilizations and also to the most exhilarating artistic finds. Asian art has been appreciated all over the world, as it offers intriguing insight into the traditions and vibrant history of Asia’s many cultures.

Asian Art is known to depict light and darkness as two sides of the same coin and as belonging to each other, and thus illuminate new ways of looking at this beautiful world. The arts of Asia are as diverse as the continent itself and encompass a whole universe of astounding variety and art lovers find themselves not knowing what is going to appear on the market next. Asian art consists of so many regional styles and periods that it literally collapses under its own weight.

Paintings have long been one of the most admired forms of art. From the magnificent cave paintings from thousands of years ago to the misty landscapes painted by the later artists, Asian art has long sought to express both harmony with nature and inner peace.

The interest in Asian art is said to be at its peak now. Some art lovers are of the opinion that the increased art poaching on the international scene seems to have inspired an urgency that says “buy while you can.” In the West, where the mention of Picasso could fetch millions of dollars, great pieces of Asian art were literally a steal; however, now they are lining up as competition too.

The international Asian Art Fair in Manhattan is a big hit with the Americans and Europeans. Founded in the year 1996, this fair brings together the world’s leading dealers in Indian, Himalayan, Tibetan, Near Eastern, South East Asian and Far Eastern spectacular works of art, and the pieces range from the earliest to the contemporary. (more…)

There is something about our past that intrigues us. Antiques and collectibles are extremely popular with many people. Some collect items like furniture or sports memorabilia for the aesthetic value it brings to a home. Others collect coins or toys for potential profit. Antiques can be small and meaningful in a personal way or simply an investment piece.

Collecting Antiques

There are many ways to collect antiques. For many it is a game they simply enjoy playing. Garage and estate sales yield valuable items that others think of as junk or outdated. Shops and specialty stores may have the last piece needed to complete a valuable collection. Online auction sites bring potential collectibles straight to your home. However you collect, enjoy the hunt – its part of the thrill.

The Value of Collectibles

Collections can be extremely valuable. For many they are simply a means to invest, and for others they are a combination of investment and hobby. If you find a piece at an estate sale for a few dollars, clean it up and then realize it has more value than you originally anticipated, you can sell it immediately for a profit or hold onto it and wait for it to grow in value.

Items such as baseball cards, artifacts and items from important events such as September 11, 2001 appreciate with age. As fewer of a particular item become available, the item in question becomes more valuable. Thus, the longer you hold onto an antique, the more valuable it becomes - a true investment.

Others prefer to combine a pleasurable hobby with a bit of potential moneymaking. They search through sales and shops for hidden treasures, clean them up and either keep them for investment or sell them immediately. Little storefronts have sprung up to help others sell their treasures through online auction sites or to direct customers. Who says a hobby can’t be profitable?