Why PKR Antiques specialise in Asian antiques

A near two-decade long journey

Robert initially started specialising in general antiques and traditional European decorative arts in 2002. As that market diminished in popularity and desirability, he noticed that in line with the general market, the demand for Chinese works of art and antiques was on the rise.

He noticed a parallel between the decline of traditional European decorative arts and the ascent of Chinese works of art. Hence, Robert transitioned in around 2006 from traditional European antiques and decorative arts, to Chinese and Japanese works of art. In particular, focusing on 18th, 19th century Chinese works of art.

Fast forward to now, Robert has gathered nearly 15 years of experience specialising in Asian antiques. His deep understanding includes, but is not limited to, antique Chinese art, paintings and calligraphy. As well as Chinese ceramics and Asian porcelain.

Reasons for the desirability for Asian antiques and growth in popularity

In one instance, there was a recognised parallel between the increased medium income of China and the growing popularity for Asian antiques. Around 2006-2007 when Robert transitioned over to specialise in Asian works of art, the Chinese stock market was bumbling and emerging. This powered the engagement within the arts and antiques industry. People began seeing the value in these artefacts and took money out of their own investments to fund their fine art collections.

It was also pegged against the fact that during the cultural revolution, a lot of objects either left China or were destroyed. The appetite for acquiring Chinese works of art were really in the West, Hong Kong and Taiwan. Hence in the 80’s and 90’s, as income increased and a world view expanded in China, so did their appetite for their domestic antiques and decorative arts.

Picture Right: Chinese 14-17th century jade plaque – mounted in gilt metal box.

Beautiful interlacing and intertwined lotus stems supporting winged bird, every incision and polish done by a lapidary at bench.

The plaque is carved to show feathers and detailed bodied, smooth and realistic polish to lotus blossoms, the vine supported winged bird seems suspended by lotus, the carver succeeded to achieve a three dimensional view to an oval plaque. Creating a near free-flowing aquatic energy to a fixed object

Fine uniform celadon color jade, a lovely overall example.

Why PKR Antiques is different to others

Robert is a full-time resident in America. He is not someone who visits from abroad for two months and has an infrequent presence in America. He is a constant presence in America. He has appraised for major institutions in America, including the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the PBS program and Antiques Road Show.

Working across three continents, it is easy to see that Robert understands the cross section of values and clientele. His exposure to Chinese works of art began from 2002 and 2003 in a minor way, and then in a major way, from 2006/2007. Therefore, Robert has handled and evaluated multitudinous pieces of work over the years.

In comparison, many others have just entered the field due to its popularity or it being viewed as a growth area within the last three to five years. All in all, the vast experience, exposure, and a world view makes PKR Antiques stand above the others.