John Sikorski: Cedar chest found in secondary market; doll is quite collectible
Q: I have acquired a cedar chest from family and would like to know if there is any history for it. I have included some pictures of the outside and inside. It does have a lock, and the key is available. The drawers are not functional; they are for show only. I look forward to hearing from you. — A.R., internet
A: I suspect most folks when asked to name a cedar chest manufacturer would say Lane. The Lane Company was in business in North Carolina beginning in 1912 and closed in 2001. They produced a large variety of cedar chests with a lift top for access to the interior and exterior appearances that mimicked period furniture styles from the 16th to 20th centuries. In general, they can be found in the secondary furniture market at affordable prices.
Q: We enjoy your column each week and would appreciate any information you can give us on a doll I have. It is 30 inches tall. On the back of the head is impressed “Handwerck Halbig.” As far as I know, she is in the original dress and her wig is human hair. I do not know anything else about her; she belonged to my aunt who had dolls all over her house. We always thought it was a bit creepy. Is this doll collectible? Where should I go to sell her? — L.G., Internet
A: Yes, your doll is quite collectible. The German doll maker Handwerck Halbig is well known to doll collectors. Your doll was produced in the late 19th to early 20th century. Doll prices have gone down since the early part of this century. Currently it would likely sell in the $250 to $500 range. If you are determined to sell the doll, I suggest you contact Sherry Minton, doll collector and expert in the world of doll collecting. The phone number is 407-293-3164.
Q: I have two figurines I am interested in knowing more about. They are both 7 inches tall, and on the bottom they both have “Royal Adderly” above a circle, then “Annette” with “Staffordshire Lace” written in gold is on the girl figure. Can you tell me anything about their age and value? I have had them for more than 50 years. — T.G.
A: The two porcelain figurines were manufactured in the Staffordshire district of England by the Adderly Company. William Alsager Adderly started the company in 1876. During the early 20th century, they became part of The Royal Doulton Group and continue currently. Your two figurines were produced after 1920. Currently there is no specific collector interest. Potential dollar value is $25 to $75 each.
— John Sikorski, with more than 35 years of experience, is an Ocala-based antiques advisor, consultant and broker. Send your questions to Sikorski's Attic, c/o The Ocala Star-Banner, 2121 SW 19th Ave. Road, Ocala, FL 34471-7752, or email absantique@aol.com.
This article originally appeared on The Gainesville Sun: Sikorski: Cedar chest found in secondary market; doll is collectible
