Antique Spectacular offers treasures big and small

By Lindsay Hocker

ROCK ISLAND-- People are visiting the QCCA Expo Center this weekend to hunt for treasures big and small at the Antique Spectacular.

Collectors searching for pocket-sized items, such as jewelry and tiny animal figurines, peek into glass display cases and carefully examine the contents of shelves.

For collectors thinking big, the items are much easier to spot. Solid wood furniture, oriental rugs and a cowhide-covered horse on wheels are some of the larger items up for grabs.

"This is the tire-kicking night," vendor Jim Bartell of Clock Corner Antiques in Bartonville, Ill., said as the event got under way Friday night.

Many in attendance the first night made several rounds before selecting items, with others promising sellers they'd be back later this weekend. Even so, vendors were as busy penning receipts and wrapping up fragile items as they were answering questions.

Despite the economy, Mr. Bartell said high-quality antiques are still selling well as he sat at a Horner oak table created in 1860. In addition to furniture, his booth features glassware.

"The good furniture, it holds up. Today, it's still a good investment,"Mr. Bartell said, adding that any good quality, recognized antique is worth investing in.

Vendor Steve Gamble, of Somonauk, Ill., agreed that the high-quality pieces are still selling. His items are of the "decorative arts" variety and include 19th century paintings.

"It's going back to things that were valuable when they were made," Mr. Gamble said. Instead of items that were once everyday items -- for example, milk cans -- things like paintings, silverware, marble sculptures and statues are selling, he said.

Craig Ringstad, of Minneapolis, Minn., said he loves the history, quality and craftsmanship of antiques. Many people trickled into his booth, which had a variety of items, including Tartan ware and vintage Christmas ornaments.

"You get in his booth, and it's just hard to leave," said Vicki Sneddon, of Wilton, Iowa, who is a returning customer. She is working on restoring a 1904 home, which she plans on filling with antiques.

"Everything in that home will be of that era," Ms. Sneddon said. "Every little individual thing has got to be considered."

The three-day antique show continues at the QCCA Expo Center, 2621 4th Ave, Rock Island, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. today. Parking is free, and admission is $6. For more information, visit www.antiquespectacular.com.