Antique Roadshow worthy or just old art?

December 3, 2009 7:18 PM

Antiques Roadshow worthy or just overpriced old crap?

I just purchased this lithograph (I think that's what it is) by Ed Gust May (I think that's a name, it's all in german and I don't speak it) It is 4 colors with accents of gold. It is a picture of the Sacred Heart, which is written in gothic font in german and in french and spanish set in a thin serif.

It called my attention first because my grandparents had two smaller prints like this one, although theirs was only 2 colors, it just brought some nostalgia to me. Then, looking up some information in these type of prints, I realized that it could be worth a bit more of what I paid for or could be worth nothing. I would like to know how can I get this to someone who may know more about it. Where and to whom do I take it?

I am really lost on this and I don't even know which period time this comes from. It seems to be from the early 1900s but I know they made these types of lithographs well into the 30s. Are they worth anything?

This print is approximately a 2x3.5 ft. and it is, in what appears to be, the original frame and backing. The frame is a bit damaged at the bottom, but the print seems to be in perfect condition, no tears or rips.

I'd be forever grateful if anyone has any tips or information about what should I do.

posted by ratita to shopping (6 answers total)

Well, as is pointed out elsewhere, what you see on Antiques Roadshow and the like are mostly the "hits" where someone brings in something worth a surprising amount of money. They don't show you all the other people milling about in the background who bring in a piece of crap worth nothing beyond sentimental value or whatnot.

That said, if it truly is in its original frame and in superior condition, it may well be worth at least a little bit. But then, what did you pay for it?

Just stop by an antiques dealer in your area and get a scratch 'n' sniff appraisal. You'll be able to tell if he's really interested or if it's something he's got a shelf full of in the basement. But don't get your hopes up regardless.
posted by dhartung at 7:24 PM on December 3, 2009

But then, what did you pay for it?

I paid $20. I really don't know much about this type of pieces and it caught my attention because of a sentimental thing, but it is not something in my style (I'm agnostic and slightly prefer mid-century and contemporary art) although it is a beautiful piece on it's own.
posted by ratita at 7:37 PM on December 3, 2009

Take a pic of it! There's enough German speakers on here we should be able to help. Even if it is crazy hochdeutsch.
posted by TomMelee at 7:39 PM on December 3, 2009

On this site there's a litho of his for sale for £120 or so.

The Gus is short for Gustav - google brings up more results for that search. There is one more here for $545.

It seems like it could well turn you a profit.
posted by multivalent at 3:34 AM on December 4, 2009

A photo would be useful.

Gustave May is the publisher. Ed. Gust. May is "Editions Gustave May." A religious print produced by his company is for sale here on eBay. I think what you have on your hands is a mass produced religious print, but without seeing it I don't know for certain.
posted by fire&wings at 4:14 AM on December 4, 2009

Ah ok, that make sense f&w.
posted by multivalent at 4:46 AM on December 4, 2009