An Open Letter to Global Antique Investors
Since the onset of the global free market economy in 1979, massive industrialization, the internet revolution, and the emergence of new technologies have steadily transformed investors’ mindsets over the past 44 years, making the antique industry appear “outdated.” In the course of these 44 years, much of the new wealth generated over the last 23 years has been created by young entrepreneurs born in the 70s and 80s. These individuals, who often advocate minimalism and prioritize speed over quality, exhibit a noticeable shift in taste, moving increasingly away from the highly decorative aesthetics of previous generations.
Today, in a global landscape marred by rampant inflation, small, quirky, and inexpensive items are trending, with cross-border e-commerce platforms, second-hand trading channels, and platforms such as Amazon, TikTok, Shopee, Shein, and Temu, gaining popularity. In the face of the transience and instability of current trends, investors are becoming more cautious and conservative in their interest in antiques, especially second-hand ones. This explains why, in recent years, there has been a noticeable decline in the acquisition and investment in antiques, particularly large pieces.
Wodei has acutely perceived this. The core philosophy upon which Wodei was founded is the concept of “Antiques Remade.” The practice of marrying traditional craftsmanship with new methodologies is what we call “Antiques Remade.” The key issue that Wodei addresses is the prohibitive cost of antiques. By remaking antiques, their prices can be comparatively lowered, which effectively serves as a critical opportunity to revive solitary craftsmanship and give birth to personalized collections.
Antiques, ancient works of art, are items that must be at least 100 years old. Given that antiques have a history of over 100 years, some are unearthed during modern land development and construction, or discovered through archeological excavations, or are found in attics, basements, and private collections. Consequently, the majority of antiques available in today’s market bear signs of wear and other usage marks, making it challenging to find items in good condition. Furthermore, high-end antique items and unique pieces crafted by top-quality artisans are often part of collections in the world’s most renowned museums, private collections, and galleries.
Traditional doctrine dictates that the value of an antique is determined by its condition, age, rarity, and craftsmanship. Items in good condition, free of damage, restoration, or signs of wear are considered to be the most valuable. The main criterion is age, with older pieces deemed more valuable than newer ones. Wodei holds a contrasting opinion, for the state of antiques is unlikely to be original, as exposure to light, humidity, and other environmental factors over time lead to alterations or deterioration that may not be visible to the naked eye. For instance, an item should be held with both hands and avoided to be touched by fingers, as skin oils can cause damage over time. Incorrect cleaning methods can also harm the piece, and the older the work, the harder it is to ensure safe storage, handling, and cleaning. Wodei believes that newer pieces are more valuable than older ones, and larger pieces are more valuable than smaller ones.
The concept of “Antiques Remade,” proposed by Wodei, along with the spirit of exploration, has been widely recognized by the inheritors of craftsmen from the flourishing periods of the Tang, Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties in China. These venerable inheritors, albeit few and far between today, continue the meticulous and stringent practices of their predecessors, and can also customize high-end collectibles according to investors’ needs. Through the hands of these craftsmen, utilizing various materials and distinctive hand-carved and hand-decorated styles, they engage in complex designs to achieve rare technical excellence and temperament, creating exquisite, lustrous works. These pieces, with their rich and gentle evocations of unique natural features, have a longer lifespan. As a result, they become timeless classics, which, decades later or every time you behold them, convey an indescribable power. They constantly remind you that you are you — unique, unparalleled, and incomparable — bringing an enduring sense of pleasure that will invariably leave you lost for words.