Sue Thornquist
They were weird but fascinating. Disembodied female heads from the 1930’s/40’s with holes in their noggins for flowers. I bought one at an antique shop for my art deco bathroom. Then, I started collecting them—stylish white ladies with upswept ceramic hair, dangly faux pearl earrings and necklaces, elaborate hats, stiff “hair” eyelashes, red lips and manicured nails. One looked suspiciously like Jackie O.
Small head vases ran $60-85 from a knowledgeable dealer. Larger, unusual ones in great condition--possessing both earrings, say—sold for hundreds. My most expensive value was $125. Until one summer at Sandwich Antiques Fair….
My friend Janine summoned me: “Hey Suz, come look at this,” holding up a lovely lady with an elegant white and purple cape draped over her hair and white turtleneck, and two pearl earrings.
Her only flaw was a chip at the vase opening. She was unique, seemed like the real deal--not a reproduction. “I need another head vase like I need a hole in MY head,” I replied. We moved on. But at closing time when we walked by the booth, Purple Lady waited patiently. I got her for a mere $22.
“Antiques Roadshow” inspired, I did my research. I discovered “Rose,” a bonified head vase expert, and her extensive website. Though Purple Lady was not catalogued, I found others who could’ve been her sisters. I contacted “Rose,” sent pictures, and ultimately found the encircled “R” manufacturer’s marking. Authentic.
Weeks later, “Rose” sent the big reveal. My $22 investment was worth $450! She offered to purchase her.
The thrill of discovery. A great story. Priceless.