But after many years of unchecked and unlimited fraud being allowed to flourish, specifically on e`Bay, there now seems to be a trend of both personal Internet sites and local dealers now selling these same fakes. Pieces that have made the rounds on e`Bay, flooding the market for years now. In my research on Detection of Fakes, I saved many of these images over the years.  That has proved very worthwhile.

About 9 years ago I had a call from a well known collector / dealer of reputation.  I've been contacted by quite a few that can't seem to comprehend that my collection (or any specific piece) is not for sale. Even if it were, no one would be able to afford it since I refuse to break it up.  This dealer at that time introduced himself with [Quote] "I am considered the best  authority in the United States and possibly in the World when it comes to Chinese Porcelain."  I was trembling ..........  He then inquired about several of my pieces and was shocked when I reminded him none were for sale.  He still wanted to meet with me and view two specific pieces.  I refused.

That same dealer is now offering a piece that made it's first appearance on e`Bay back in 2001.  It is a perfect example of a poor quality fake now being offered as genuine from the period by him, a dealer who 9 years earlier claimed to be the best in the world, a legend in his own time. A legend in his own mind is more appropriate. He, and others like him, may sincerely believe that their items are authentic.

So now we have to be on the lookout for these same fakes being re-sold (recycled) as genuine from what will appear to be reputable dealers. And not coming just from China now, but locally as well.

Though I've spent a small amount purposely acquiring obvious fakes in hopes of producing a book on such, it's doubtful I will complete it.  Having photographed and documented these for that purpose, I've now given most away. Being retired I thought would allow time for the book, but I find time is best spent with family, enjoying children and grandchildren.  I recently donated 12 Ming plates and bowls to the Chinese Kwan Tai Temple. Eventually my entire collection will be donated to a museum since I refuse to break it up.  It's like a family to me.  So I am sharing my 'family' with you in hopes that you too can build a nice collection to enjoy and share with others.

Be careful out there, and be mindful of the latest trend I see surfacing, not just on the Internet, but possibly at your local dealers as well.

JP

Jan 30th, 2006