What’s It Worth?

Q:I own a carved figurine of a cat that I was told was bought in Cairo. I would like to know its origin, age and value. In addition, what do the hieroglyphics mean? Is it a valuable antiquity or just a paperweight? -- J.L.F.

Answer: It is a pottery souvenir made in Egypt. The cat was revered in ancient Egypt to such a degree that a cat-form goddess was created named Bastet. In practical terms, cats protected the grain stores from rats.

Because I am not an Egyptologist, I cannot decipher the hieroglyphics. Perhaps it says, "Buy this new cat." Fakes, reproductions and souvenirs of ancient Egyptian artifacts have been made for hundreds of years.

It would retail for about $40.

Q:I inherited a chair from my parents who got it from a friend in Northampton, Mass. There is no label. It has a fancy, heavily carved back and appears to retain the original finish. What can you tell me about the piece? -- K.H.

Answer: It is an American manufactured armchair produced around the turn of the 20th century. It may have been part of a suite that included a settee and side chairs. The Medusa head on the back was machined-carved.

Medusa is a star of Greek mythology. According to the myth, she was a female monster with a head of snakes instead of hair. Plus, if you looked at her you would be turned into stone. She was not a fun date.

It would sell for about $225.

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.