Posted by I’m thrilled that my local Goodwill is now back to opening at 9:00 a.m. because on the days when I manage to pull myself together early that’s where I head. The parking lot is usually empty and I have the store to myself.
So the other day I wandered in my usual circuit around the store and then did it a second time and a partial third. There was nothing here for me today. Or so I thought. I glanced at the mugs ever so briefly (because I am NOT buying and selling mugs) and spotted this unusual pair.
I flipped one over and saw this. Sweet. Arabia Finland is one of the brands I look for. They’ve been designing quirky, powerful images for their porcelain pieces since 1873 and the items tend to retain value.
Well, I knew I couldn’t leave these behind. So, I guess I AM selling mugs!!
The mugs are in the Runo (poem) series and this particular pattern is Neitoperho (butterfly / peacock butterfly) by ceramic artist Heini Riitahuhta. As I started researching this pattern I discovered two things 1) it is a fairly scarce pattern and 2) the few available online are listed between $84 and $147 for a single, used mug. Hmmmm.
I haven’t been able to find any sold comps for this particular discontinued pattern. In the end I listed the pair for $158.
We’ll see if they sell, but it was a nice, unexpected find for me because I barely look at mugs. Will I start selling more mugs now? Not likely.
But I do buy vintage and antique bread/dessert plates and have had moderate success selling them. While folks may not want a whole china service, they like having a few special smaller plates. I know I do! Here are a few of my solds over the years…
I’ll close for now wishing you happy hunting,
Karen
