Messages

1

Antique Questions Forum / Re: 18th Century Spanish Colonial Nicho

« on: July 22, 2012, 10:20:32 pm »

Will do!  I've sent pics and all info to Christies.  If and when I get a response, I'll be back.  Thanks again!

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Antique Questions Forum / Re: 18th Century Spanish Colonial Nicho

« on: July 22, 2012, 04:09:08 pm »

I will definitely take your advice and check with Christies.  Thank you, Mart and KC, and all of the rest of you who so generously share your knowledge and expertise.  I have learned a great deal from this site and I am very grateful.

Off to Christies!

3

Antique Questions Forum / Re: 18th Century Spanish Colonial Nicho

« on: July 22, 2012, 09:50:00 am »

May I ask where and how you can into this piece?  (Helps with narrowing this down.)

I acquired it about 5 years ago from a neighbor's estate.  He had been a diplomat and had photos of himself with Hoover.  I know that he had traveled extensively and went to mass every Sunday.  Unfortunately, I never got a chance to ask him about the nicho so I have no further info than that.  It has been packed away in a box since I acquired it and I am now downsizing and renouncing my hoarder lifeatyle.

Recently, since I posted this, an expert in Spanish Colonial art that I had sent photos to expressed an interest in purchasing the nicho.  I suggested that he make an offer and he responded that it was up to me to set the price.  Being a virtual novice and having only acquired this because I am attracted to objects that appear to have a history, I have no clue what price to set.   How does one arrive at an asking price for something like this?  Most of the prior auction prices I have found have been for 19th century and later nichos.  I have only found 2 currently listed for sale and they are larger, or much more elaborate or in perfect condition.  I thought of putting it up for auction on eBay but I can't decide on a starting price.  Any advice?

Thank you so much for responding, I was beginning to squirm. 

4

Antique Questions Forum / Re: 18th Century Spanish Colonial Nicho

« on: July 21, 2012, 01:02:27 pm »

Um, did I say or do something wrong?

5

Antique Questions Forum / 18th Century Spanish Colonial Nicho

« on: July 16, 2012, 04:43:38 am »

I believe this to be an 18th century Spanish Colonial nicho.  I have done extensive research online and have only been able to find 2 examples of 18th century nichos but have found a multitude of 19th century and later examples.  I concluded that this one must be 18th century because of the santos depicted on the insides of the doors.  All of the 19th century and later examples had very simple floral designs, such as the designs on the outsides of these doors.  Also, the polychrome painting style resembles the Cuzco style of the Spanish colonial era.

The doors on this nicho are no longer attached to the box part.  The hinge hardware appears to have been made with brass wire.  There is what appears to be glue residue on top and no paint on the top and bottom edges, indicating there had once been a decorative top and/or molding.

Measurements:  6.5" X 9.75" x 3.5" (outside dimensions).  Each of the doors are:  3.25" x 9".

Can someone give me any info on my nicho?  Am I correct in dating it as 18th century?  Any opinion as to the value and the market for this item in its current condition?  Thank you!