Ep 4. Austin - Hour 1

Antiques Roadshow is an American television program that showcases various antiques, artwork, and other artifacts submitted by the general public. In season 19, episode 4 titled "Austin - Hour 1," the show takes place in the city of Austin, Texas and features a wide variety of unique and historical items.

The show begins with host Mark L. Walberg and appraiser Alasdair Nichol visiting the Texas State Capitol building to explore its collection of artwork and historical artifacts. They discover a rare gavel used by President Lyndon B. Johnson during his time as Senate Majority Leader, as well as a collection of bronze sculptures made by renowned Texas artist Elisabet Ney.

The first guests to arrive with their items are a couple from Austin who bring in a painting by the famous American artist John Singer Sargent. Appraiser Colleene Fesko examines the painting and explains its historical significance as well as its current value. Next up, a man presents a rare 19th-century map of Austin, which he found in a thrift store. Appraiser Wes Cowan is impressed by the map's condition and rarity, and gives it an impressive appraisal value.

The episode continues with a wide range of fascinating items, including an antique Japanese teapot, a collection of rare cowboy memorabilia, and a set of antique Chinese porcelain figures. One of the more unique items of the episode is a collection of vintage circus posters, brought in by a collector who was gifted them by his grandfather. Appraiser Nicholas Lowry explains the historical and cultural significance of these posters, while also giving an estimate on their current market value.

Another interesting item is a vintage guitar brought in by a musician from Austin. Appraiser Gary Sohmers examines the guitar and reveals its historical significance in the world of music, as well as giving an estimate of its value in today's market.

Finally, the episode concludes with a guest who brings in a rare collection of Walt Disney memorabilia. Appraiser Noel Barrett examines the collection, which includes rare Mickey Mouse dolls and a set of hand-written letters between Walt Disney and his animator friend, Ub Iwerks. The appraisal value of the collection stuns the guest, who is thrilled to learn of the value of these cherished items.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to a wide range of fascinating antiques, each with its own unique history and cultural significance. The appraisers on the show are knowledgeable and engaging, providing both historical context and expert assessments of each item presented. Overall, season 19, episode 4 of Antiques Roadshow is an entertaining and enlightening look into the world of antiques and historical artifacts.