„Treasures from the Attic“ educate society

Author: Martin Cinolter

Have you ever found an item in your grandmother’s flat or in an old attic that left you puzzled? It could have been a painting, a photograph, a sculpture, or perhaps a porcelain doll. The television programme “Treasures from the Attic”, in which I appear along with other colleagues, uncovers many aspects of our antique trade, but mainly reveals various “treasures” found in attics.

The positive response from viewers shows one thing: antiques are undoubtedly an attractive subject, not only for wealthy individuals who can afford to buy at auctions but also for ordinary people who simply want to find out if that teacup from their aunt has any value beyond sentimental worth.

These are exactly the kind of people who come to the show! Along with the viewers, they eagerly wait as I and other experts in the field appraise the item, to then sell it for a surprisingly high price. Alternatively, they take their antique back home with the verdict of “fake” or receive advice reminiscent of Neruda’s famous question: “What should I do with it?”

It is delightful and gratifying for someone in the field to see how an entertaining television show is slowly but surely educating viewers. Just as Zdeněk Pohlreich raised customer awareness about dining and increased expectations for gastronomy, “Treasures from the Attic” provides education in an entertaining way. At the very least, you’ll never again rush to clear out an estate and throw away something that might have unprecedented value. Nor will you fall for a con artist trying to trick you into selling a valuable piece for a pittance, as in Roald Dahl’s famous story about the rare Chippendale commode, where the cunning fraudster eventually got his comeuppance.

So be sure to watch “Treasures from the Attic” – you might soon stumble upon a treasure of your own. And if you don’t know what to do with it, don’t hesitate to visit a reputable antiques shop.

Martin Cinolter

Photo: FTV Prima