My Most Valuable Collectibles: Art, Antiques, and Beyond

Collecting items that hold a special place in one's heart and provide a glimpse into the past can be a rewarding and fascinating hobby. For me, my collectible items span a wide range of categories, from art and antiques to more everyday items like scissors. I’d like to share some of my favorites and the stories behind them.

Articulating Collectibles: A Combination of Heritage and Modernity

Among my collectible items, I have two items that hold a very special place in my heart. One is an oil painting “Madonna and Child” from the 1582 school of Michelangelo, which is one of the inherited family heirlooms. The painting is from our chapel in a prominent Italian city, and its rich history and artistic significance make it a cherished piece of art.

Another item is a Napoleon I porcelain chocolate service for 24, a set richly decorated with pure gold handles and fittings. I purchased this in Paris in 1961 at a Sotheby's auction during a snowstorm, where I was one of five bidders. Considering the regularity of such auctions, this piece is incredibly valuable not just due to its craftsmanship but also because of the circumstances of its acquisition.

Modern Horrors: A Unique Collectible Film Prop

Although my love for collecting extends to a wide array of items, I also have a particular interest in vintage and horror film props. One of my most cherished items in this category is a special-edition steel book from the 1965 film Dr. Terrors House of Horrors. This is one of only four thousand copies and belongs to Amicus’ first portmanteau collection. I find it difficult to decide if I love it more than the steel-edition book of The House That Dripped Blood, which was also featured in an earlier post.

Sharpening Perfection: An Endless Collection of Scissors

Among the variety of collectible items, my favorite has to be scissors. Each one is unique and serves a different purpose, whether it's for precision cutting, ornamental display, or utilitarian use. I have scissor collections including:

Electric scissors that can cut intricate patterns Scissors that can create “squiggly” lines Modern, ornate scissors and simple, everyday scissors Left-handed scissors for specific tasks Children’s school scissors for delicate tasks Antique hair-cutting scissors and hair-thinning shears Utility shears for a variety of functions

Collectively, I must own around 200 pairs of scissors. What's truly unusual about this collection is not just the sheer number of items, but the joy and satisfaction each pair brings. Scissors, for me, serve as a window into the craftsmanship and artistry of different eras and cultures. Collecting them is like collecting a piece of history.

Ancient Coins and More: A Treasured Trove

Alongside the scissors, I also have a vast collection of ancient coins from across the world. Each coin tells a story of a different era, a different civilization. They are a tangible link to the past, and each one has a unique charm and historical significance. I also have a variety of items like old glass bottles, dice, lighters, and Asian decor, among others. Each piece adds a dimension to my collection and provides a piece of the puzzle to the broader narrative of human history and art.

Conclusion

Collecting is not just about possession; it's about the stories behind each item, the history it represents, and the joy it brings. Whether it’s a piece of art, a precious antique, or a simple everyday tool like a pair of scissors, each item in my collection holds a special place. My hobby is a journey through time, an exploration of different cultures, and a testament to the enduring human desire to collect, appreciate, and preserve.