Introduction to Mangle Boards Mangle boards, traditionally known as mangling boards, are a treasured aspect of Scandinavian cultural heritage, predominantly found in Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and Finland. These wooden artifacts served both a practical purpose in textile care and as exquisite displays of craftsmanship, dating back to the 16th century. This article delves into their origins, functionality, cultural significance, collectibility, and enduring legacy in modern times. Origins and Evolution The earliest known mangle boards in the Scandinavian areas can be traced back to as early as t ..read more

Recently, I reclaimed my office space after temporarily offering it to one of my children who returned from university. In the process of clearing and redecorating, I stumbled upon an exquisite chinoiserie long-case clock dating back to the early 18th century. Despite its evident wear, a testament to its rich history, the clock’s beauty was undeniable, compelling me to place it prominently in my office. It now graces the background as I film episodes for my YouTube channel, Antiquesarena. This discovery, which I shared in a recent vlog, sparked the idea for an in-depth exploration of the histo ..read more

In the intricate realm of antiques dealing and reselling, one of the paramount challenges is the transportation of large, often delicate items. Whether it’s a grandiose armoire, an ornate mirror, or a vintage dining table, the logistics of safely and efficiently moving these treasures can be daunting. Traditional methods like using pallet lines offer a standardized approach but may lack the flexibility and competitive pricing that specialized platforms provide. Enter the innovative solution for antique dealers and resellers: Shiply.com. Shiply.com revolutionizes the shipping process by turning ..read more

In the ever-evolving digital marketplace, where the ease of online selling offers a lifeline for many to supplement their income, recent legislative changes have cast a new light on financial transparency and accountability. In a bid to ensure fairness and compliance within the system, two pivotal developments have emerged from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC), each bearing significant implications for online sellers. These developments, detailed in separate articles on AntiquesArena.com, underscore a growing intersection between financial surveillan ..read more

The UK government is implementing new legislation that grants the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) enhanced capabilities to monitor the bank accounts of individuals claiming benefits, as part of a broader initiative to combat benefit fraud. This move is aimed at identifying fraudulent claims by examining claimants’ savings and financial activities to ensure compliance with eligibility criteria for benefit claims. The DWP is focusing on several benefits including Universal Credit, Housing Benefit (for those of pension age), Pension Credit, State Pension, Personal Independence Payment (PI ..read more

In the UK, if you’re selling goods or services online through platforms like eBay, Vinted, or Etsy, new regulations from HMRC might affect you. Starting from January 1, 2024, these platforms are required to collect and report certain information about their sellers to HMRC. This includes names, addresses, dates of birth, National Insurance numbers, taxpayer identification numbers, and details of the sellers’ earnings and fees paid. For business sellers, this also includes their business registration numbers. This measure aims to ensure that online sellers accurately declare their income and pa ..read more

Have you ever wondered why people spend huge sums of money for antiques when a new counterpart could be a fraction of the price? in today’s article, I talk about what I feel the appeal of antiques is, why do people buy antiques? why do antiques demand so much money? I gave a presentation recently and wanted to save this section of the speech as it meant something to me. Why don’t people just go to the shop and buy a brand-new item for a fraction of the cost?   Antiques are at best second-hand or even passed down through generations, bearing marks and wear of their age rather than being n ..read more

History Of Chinese Glass Paperweights. The diversity of Chinese glass paperweights reflects a rich tradition of glassmaking that spans several decades. Chinese artisans have been crafting glass paperweights since the early 20th century, employing techniques such as lampwork, millefiori, and sulphide to create intricate and beautiful pieces. These paperweights often drew inspiration from classic French and 19th-century American designs, tailored to the tastes of international markets, particularly in the USA. Lampwork and millefiori were among the earliest techniques adopted by Chinese glassmak ..read more

Initially, the bending of coins in Britain had religious connotations. From the early 14th century, English people customarily bent coins while making vows to saints, especially in times of crisis, such as the illness of a loved one. This act served both as a promise for a pilgrimage and as a way to remove the coin from general circulation, symbolizing a personal sacrifice. After the Protestant Reformation, the practice of coin bending shifted from a religious to a more secular and romantic gesture. From the Elizabethan period through the 18th century, bent coins were often used as love token ..read more

Introduction. Welsh carved wood love spoons are a unique and charming tradition rooted in the folk culture of Wales. These intricately designed spoons are more than mere utensils; they are symbols of love and affection, deeply embedded in Welsh history and heritage. Origins and Historical Significance The tradition of carving love spoons in Wales dates back to the 17th century. Originally, these spoons were crafted by young men as a token of affection for the women they loved. The practice provided an opportunity for the suitor to showcase his skills and creativity, as the intricacy and beaut ..read more