In this feature, we hear from Jon Felz, an expert appraiser from RZM Fine Arts & Antiques, who provides valuable insights on evaluating prized possessions. Have something you're curious about having appraised? Reach out to Jon for a chance to have your items featured in a future "Ask the Appraiser" column.
Note to Appraiser:
I recently purchased this large decorative planter at a local garage sale and was hoping you could provide some information about it, as well as an estimate of its value.
The piece was tucked beneath a table and covered with blankets when I first spotted it. When I asked whether it was for sale, I was told it was, and I offered $25. My offer was accepted. At the time, I thought it would make the perfect place to hold my mail.
I was later told the planter had belonged to the homeowner, who had recently passed away. The piece measures approximately 15 inches tall and 14 inches wide. As a regular reader of your column, I know condition plays a significant role in determining value. I have carefully inspected it and can find no signs of damage.
I attempted to research it on my own but was unable to find any information. If I sent too many photographs, I apologize. I simply wanted to provide enough detail to help with the identification.
Thank you in advance for your assistance.
Appraisal Response:
Congratulations. You are now the owner of what may be the most expensive mail holder in town.
The item you purchased at that garage sale is not a ceramic planter at all. It is a Fine Gilt-Bronze Mounted Cloisonné and Marquetry Jardinière, produced in Paris around 1880 by the renowned artisan Ferdinand Duvinage (1820–1876).
Your jardinière is an exceptional example of the refined and exotic decorative arts that flourished in late 19th-century Paris. It combines Duvinage's innovative marquetry techniques with richly colored cloisonné-style inlays and finely cast gilt-bronze mounts, creating a piece that is both visually striking and historically significant.
The object was produced by Maison Alphonse Giroux, the celebrated French luxury furnishings and decorative arts firm founded in 1799. Ferdinand Duvinage assumed control of the company in 1867 and became known for creating sophisticated works inspired by the growing popularity of Japonisme, the European fascination with Japanese art and design.
The distinctive marquetry technique seen on your jardinière was patented by Duvinage and likely showcased at the Paris Exposition Universelle of 1878. Similar examples have appeared at major antique exhibitions and auctions, including a comparable piece that sold at the Miami Beach Antique Show earlier this year.
Duvinage's reputation as one of France's foremost decorative artists was firmly established when he received a silver medal at the Exposition Universelle of 1867 for his groundbreaking work in this style.
Now for the part you've been waiting for.
Your $25 garage sale purchase carries a current market value of approximately $5,000.
That's quite a return on investment and proof that remarkable treasures can still be found in the most unexpected places. Given its quality, rarity and excellent condition, I would strongly recommend consulting a reputable high-end auction house in New York City should you ever decide to sell it.
And one final piece of advice: you may want to keep the story of what you paid for it to yourself.
Jon Felz - Senior Appraiser
RZM Fine Arts & Antiques, Inc.
Address: 132 Dexter Avenue, Pearl River, NY
Phone: 845-735-1313
Email: rzmantique@aol.com