Posted by Twice a year I fly into Knoxville, TN, to visit my dad and brother. My dad is 94 now and as you might imagine quite frail. These trips are bittersweet for me knowing it may be the last time I see him. Still I am grateful for the time together.
While in Tennessee going to a few antique stores is always on the agenda. But I sternly tell myself–no breakables. (Well, unless it’s a great score!) I never buy much but greatly enjoy looking and cherry picking a few treasures.
Wednesday we visited two favorites, both in Maryville: Highway 411 South Antiques and Broken Arrow, a True Antique Journey.
My first find was this oh-so-pretty cross-stitch with teeny, tiny, tight stitches.
Turns out it was made from a 1991 kit from Something Special titled “Mixed Floral on Black” and it’s ready to be framed or used in another way. Reason I bought this? It’s perfect for a cottage-core, grandma-core or traditional decor house!
This antique bridal basket is silver-plate on copper by K & S. I am still researching the maker’s mark, though it’s possibly Kirk & Smith (1815-1820). Rather a charming thing that would be fun filled with candy.
This scarce antique Austrian embroidered purse with gold thread, tiny beads, enamel frame trim and marcasites was lovely. Most of the marcasites are missing as is the chain, but the marcasites can be replaced so it wasn’t a huge concern. Overall the condition is amazing and I had a “yes, please” moment.
Total price for all three without tax: $50
On Thursday we went to Parkway Antiques & Collectibles in Sevierville. It’s is a small, jam-packed store that was interesting to peruse, but definitely heavy on the collectibles, knick knacks and kitsch. Not my kind of thing. And some spaces with so full that it was hard to look. Other vendors used a lot of locked cabinets, but the items in them were not valuable.
In the end I bought a mystery book for myself (a vintage Margery Allingham) and a 1950 dog book to sell.
Turns out the dog book might have some serious value. Here are some currently listed for sale. Most of the prices were surprising. More research is needed, but this might be the sleeper in the group!
I am pleased with all of my items and they will be a breeze to pack.
Wishing you happy hunting,
Karen
P.S. Alas at the 50% off booth featured in the lead photo I couldn’t find one thing to buy!!
Hunting for Vintage 