Have Judaica appraised or just watch the fun at festive Feb. 17 event
Russia or Woolworth’s? That’s the kind of question you may have about that special pair of candlesticks your Bubbe told you came over with her parents from the old country (usually sewn into the hem of a skirt!).
Now you have a chance to find that out – and more!
Arizona Jewish Life magazine is teaming up with J. Levine Auction & Appraisal on Feb. 17 for a special appraisal fair called “Judaica Jackpot? Learn the Worth of Your Antiques.”
Individuals can bring up to three items of Judaica for a free verbal assessment 5-8 pm at the Auction House at 10345 N Scottsdale Road, on the southeast corner of Scottsdale Road and Shea Boulevard.
The festive evening will include wine and appetizers as well as education tables featuring several Jewish community organizations. The appraisals will be done in an open room format for everyone to see and learn about the items. The community is invited to come and enjoy, even if you don’t have an item to bring.
Cindy Saltzman, publisher of Arizona Jewish Life, says that excitement is building about the inaugural event. “We’re expecting to see a wide variety of items, and it will be fascinating to see which pieces will be deemed rare or historic.”
Judaica in this case can be any ritual object, literature, artifact or even fine art related to the history and culture of the Jewish people. Josh Levine, owner and auctioneer of J. Levine Auction & Appraisal, says that many people don’t realize the value of their family heirlooms and that the appraisal process can help them make educated decisions about whether to keep their items in a safe, insure them or sell them.
Those who wish to may consign their items to Josh for a future auction. “We’re seeing a renewed interest in Judaica from collectors here in the U.S. and abroad,” Josh says.
During the event, Josh and his team of appraisers will assess Judaica from ancient to modern times, including art, prayer books, seder plates, menorahs, candlesticks, Kiddush cups, Israeli jewelry, as well as American Jewish ephemera, such as posters and more.
“We compare items to previous auction records, gallery prices, eBay and other sites to be able to tell you what the fair market is bringing for your item, as well as what the insurance value might be. You’d be surprised at what has value, so don’t ever throw anything away until an appraiser looks at it,” Josh advises.
The event is free. Everyone is welcome to come and watch the fun while you nosh, but if you want items appraised, call 480-496-2212 to set an appointment for your appraisal time during the event.
