What makes a specific ceramic piece a good candidate for restoration?
Anything ceramic (fired clay) can be restored. That said, one must also take into account subjective issues – sentimental value, irreplaceable memories, and family harmony – as well as issues of practicality such as historical preservation, usability, and effect of resale value. For example, the 17 pieces of delft Adam and Eve charger [Fig. 1] were purchased for $1,000. After a restoration cost of $800, it quickly sold for $2,500. The new owner, fully aware of the extent of the damage and resultant repair, was delighted with his purchase. The difference in monetary value between an object in perfect condition and one that has been restored is a judgement call by an appraiser or qualified dealer. It is based on two factors: (1) the extent of original damage and (2) the quality of the restoration.
