Have you ever wondered what a vintage item is really worth, or where it came from?
I have. While we’re on homeschooling hiatus this summer I plan to scour the second-hand stores, flea markets, and garage sales for vintage items of all kinds and research their origin and current worth.
I found this espresso set at my local Goodwill. I walked by it, then walked by it again. The bright, happy colors continued to draw my eye. The cups could barely hold 2 ounces. What could they possibly be used for?Finally, I picked up one of the cups. “De Simone” was the clear signature on the bottom of this Italian gem. Who was De Simone, and was he worth 59 cents for each cup and saucer? I bought them ALL and headed home to do my research.
Worth: The going rate for a Giovanni De Simone set like this is about $150-$200. I love coffee, but must confess I did not even know espresso cups were a thing before I found this diamond in the rough among the other Goodwill bric-a-brac.
History: Giovanni De Simone was a Sicilian potter in the mid 19th century. His art depicted everyday people doing everyday things. The faces on his pottery look like something Picasso would create.
Appeal: The appeal of his work is undeniable. His painting is so whimsical and colorful, it makes me happy every time I look at one of these little cups. The size of the set is desirable for collectors because it doesn’t take up a lot of space. Nancy Low, a mosaic artist, has an entire Pinterest category dedicated to his creations.
Check out another vintage item with this link:
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