Learning the value

The Laguna Art Museum looked like a scene from “The Antiques Road Show” on Feb. 4 when appraisers from Bonhams and Butterfields hosted an art appraisal clinic at the museum.

For $5 per item, patrons received a verbal auction value appraisal.

“We think the clinic was a big success, and will most likely host another one next year,” said Marni Brewster, museum spokeswoman.

The most valuable piece brought in for appraising was a possible French Impressionist painting that could be worth $200,00 to $300,000, Brewster said.

Other items included: micromosaics valued at $8,000 to $12,000; a Tiffany lamp valued at $5,000 to $8,000; a David Hockney lithograph valued at $10,000; a 1940s moonstone necklace valued at $5,000 to $7,000; a 1950s Patek Philippe watch valued at $4,000 to $6,000; and a 1949 Dong Kingman watercolor valued at $3,000 to $4,000.

More than 150 pieces were appraised.

— Cindy Frazier