Welcome to the WCN Collecting Articles and Features Channel dedicated to all things related to collecting, antiques, pottery, vintage toys, dolls, teddy bears, memorabilia, books, comics, figurines and everything else collectable. Our aim is to provide collectors with information on all aspects of antiques and collecting, from identifying and valuing antiques, to tips on starting and growing a collection, and to featured collectible histories.
We feature hundreds of articles and features on all aspects of collecting, written by experts in the field. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just getting started, we hope you’ll find something of interest here. Thanks for reading! You can also search for articles using the magnifying glass to the top right of the web site.
Cloisonné is an ancient art technique used for decorating metal objects, typically with vitreous enamel, in which thin wires (often made of gold or silver) are used to create compartments (or cloisons in French) to contain the enamel. Once these compartments are filled, the object is fired until the enamel […]
The tapestry of secret societies weaves a captivating story, touching every corner of human civilization. While Freemasonry often stands as the poster child of such movements, especially due to its enduring legacy, the annals of history contain whispers of other notable societies. One such society is the Antient and Noble […]
In the annals of entertainment history, few figures roar as loudly as Isaac Van Amburgh, the legendary lion tamer of the 19th century. Born amidst the industrial fervor of New York, Van Amburgh’s audacious acts with wild beasts not only reshaped the circus world but also left an indelible mark […]
In 1973, audiences around the world were introduced to a film that would forever change the landscape of horror cinema. “The Exorcist,” directed by William Friedkin, based on the novel and screenplay by William Peter Blatty, struck fear into the hearts of viewers, offering a chilling exploration of faith, possession, […]
The ebb and flow of time has always fascinated humanity. Over the centuries, we’ve devised numerous mechanisms to measure its passage, from ancient sundials to the intricate digital timepieces of today. Among these chronometers, the Act of Parliament clock occupies a unique niche, both for its grand design and the […]
The HN number on a Royal Doulton piece refers to a specific system the company has used to catalogue its works. The HN stands for “Harry Nixon,” who was a lead artist at Royal Doulton. This system began in 1912 to keep track of and uniquely identify the different designs. […]
The 15th of September 2023 marked a somber day in the realm of art as it bid adieu to the illustrious Colombian artist Fernando Botero. At the venerable age of 91, Botero’s journey, adorned with a relentless pursuit of redefining aesthetic boundaries, concluded in Monaco due to complications arising from […]
Among the treasure trove of children’s entertainment, the adventures of Captain Horatio Pugwash shimmer as a beloved gem. With a legacy that has navigated through comics, books, and television, the tales of this jovial pirate and his crew aboard the Black Pig have captured imaginations for generations. But how did […]
The 18th century marked a pivotal era for the development and diversification of European furniture, particularly desks. As the Age of Enlightenment progressed, the significance of personal writing spaces became increasingly prominent. Continental desks not only responded to the demands of evolving societal roles but also mirrored the aesthetic sensibilities […]
Nestled within the scenic coastal town of Whitby, North Yorkshire, England, is a legacy steeped in time and tradition: Whitby Jet. This enigmatic black gemstone, reminiscent of a moonless night, has intertwined its fate with artisans, history enthusiasts, and notably, the iconic British monarch, Queen Victoria. Jet isn’t your typical […]
