Fine & Decorative Arts

Broad Auction House Experience Across Categories

A decade of professional work in generalist and specialist auction environments

For over a decade Richelle has worked with generalist and specialist auction houses as an administrator, cataloger, and appraiser.

Her extensive auction house experience has allowed her to evaluate and manage all categories of Fine and Decorative Works of Art.

Toddy Jug, Porcelain, Chinese, for American market

Toddy Jug

1800–1820, Chinese, for American market
Porcelain
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York
Harris Brisbane Dick Fund, 1934

Decorative Arts Appraisal Specialization

Diverse decorative arts competency spanning porcelain, silver, pottery, and more

Richelle’s experience with Decorative Arts includes Chinese export porcelain and silver, European porcelain, American pottery, and all categories of sterling silver.

She can also handle certain paintings and works on paper, as well as rugs and other general household contents.

Furniture Expertise Across CUltures

Handling of American, English, and French furniture, including notable makers

Within furniture she has handled American furniture — including Nakashima — as well as English furniture and French furniture, including pieces by makers such as François Linke.

Desk, Black walnut, ash, white pine, poplar, American

Desk

1700–1730, American,
Black walnut, ash, white pine, poplar
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York
Gift of Mrs. Russell Sage, 1909

Cross-Category Collections

Large multi-category appraisal projects for different purposes

Estates and large collections require diverse knowledge and strong organization. Richelle has worked on multiple cross-category collections from start to finish that include:

  • Furniture

  • Rugs

  • Silver

  • Porcelain

  • Fine Art

  • Asian Works of Art

  • Musical Instruments

  • Household Contents

Through her vast professional network, Richelle has also partners with other appraisers and experts to handle estates and large collections when additional areas of expertise are needed.

Formal Education in Decorative Arts Appraisal

Training and certification through the International Society of Appraisers

While at The Potomack Company in Alexandria, Virginia, Richelle began her formal education as a personal property appraiser under Todd Sigety, past president of the International Society of Appraisers (ISA). 



She is ISA Accredited in:

  • Antiques

  • Furnishings

  • Decorative Arts

She continued her ISA education through to certification — the highest level designation.

All appraisal reports are USPAP (Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice) compliant, and meet IRS requirements as necessary

Process

DISCUSSION

We start with a discussion about your goals and what services might align best with your needs.

ARGEEMENT

After reviewing your needs, Richelle will present a quote and formalize the project with a contract.

INSPECTION

An inspection will be scheduled to review the property or collection and formally begin the appraisal or advisory process.

CONCLUSION

Richelle will conclude the assignment and make sure all questions are answered, all items have been discussed, and any final report is delivered.