Ep 6. Indianapolis - Hour 3

In this episode of Antiques Roadshow, the team heads to Indianapolis for their third hour of appraisals. As always, the show features ordinary people bringing in unique and often valuable items to be appraised by antique experts.

One of the first items on the show is a bronze sculpture of a crouching panther by the French artist Antoine-Louis Barye. The owner inherited the piece from their grandmother and has been told it could be worth upwards of $10,000. Appraiser Eric Silver takes a close look at the sculpture, examining the artist's signature and the patina of the bronze. He identifies it as an early production of the piece and values it at a staggering $20,000-$30,000.

Next up, a woman brings in a framed painting that she has been told might be a James McNeill Whistler. The painting shows a riverbank scene with boats and trees in the background. Appraiser Alan Fausel takes a close look at the painting, examining the brushstrokes and signature. He determines that it is not a Whistler, but rather a work by a lesser-known artist named Henry Ward Ranger. Despite this, the painting is still valued at a respectable $20,000-$30,000.

Another fascinating item on the show is a collection of pins from the 1928 Democratic National Convention. The owner inherited the pins from their grandfather, who attended the convention as a delegate. Appraiser Kathleen Bailey takes a close look at the pins, which feature colorful designs and slogans such as "Smith and Robinson" and "Conquer or Bust". She values the collection at $3,000-$5,000.

In addition to these high-value items, the show also features several sentimental and unique pieces. A woman brings in a set of intricately carved wooden nesting dolls from Russia, which have been passed down in her family for generations. Appraiser Catherine Williamson examines the dolls, which feature detailed depictions of Russian peasants. She explains that while they are not particularly valuable, they are a wonderful representation of traditional Russian craftsmanship.

Similarly, a man brings in a hand-carved wooden toy that has been in his family for over 100 years. The toy depicts a man riding a horse and pulling a cart behind him. Appraiser Colleene Fesko values the toy at $2,000-$3,000, but notes that its true value lies in its sentimental significance to the owner.

Throughout the show, the appraisers offer fascinating insights into the history and value of each item. They explain the techniques used by the artists and craftsmen who created them, as well as the historical context and significance of each piece. The show offers a unique window into the world of antiques and the stories that lie behind them.

Overall, this episode of Antiques Roadshow offers a diverse range of items and appraisals, from high-value art and collectibles to sentimental family heirlooms. Whether you are a seasoned collector or just interested in the world of antiques, this show is sure to captivate and enlighten you.