What’s It Worth?

Q:I bought an antique chest in Austria about 20 years ago. It is painted in bright colors. I believe that it is at least 300 years old. It is about 4 feet wide by 2½ feet high. What is it worth? -- J.S.

Answer: This painted blanket chest was made in Austria in 1813. If you look closely at the front of the chest, you will be able to see the date: "18" over the first double eagle cartouche and "13" over the second one.

Early rural furniture made in Austria mostly was made of softwood painted with exuberant decoration. The paint usually was made by hand and the surface varnished.

This painted furniture, often made of red pine, was popular as wedding and anniversary gifts during the 18th and 19th centuries. The furniture is quite common. It would retail for about $450.

Q:I would like to know more about my clock that I inherited from my parents. It is marked "William L. Gilbert Clock Co." -- E.B.

Answer: The William L. Gilbert Clock Co. was established in 1871 in Connecticut, although its roots can be traced to 1830. Gilbert went through many changes over the years and became part of Spartus Corp., now owned by General Time.

This tambour-style mantel clock was manufactured during the late 1930s. It appears to be in very rough condition and would retail for about $100.

Have a question about an antique or collectible? Send e-mail to with a digital image, or send a complete description with a clear photograph to Jay Moore, Flair Department, Richmond Times-Dispatch, P.O. Box 85333, Richmond, VA 23293. Photographs will not be returned. The large volume of mail may mean a delay in publishing answers.