A highly informative and entertaining look at what really goes on at auctions and antiques fairs, the A - Z of Antiques and Auctions is a must-have for anyone seeking to buy or sell something at an auction. In this book, Michael Hogben shares his huge wealth of experience running participating in hundreds of auctions. Buyers are taught the vital tricks of the trade, including how to bid, understanding commission charges and estimates, how to spot fakes, how to haggle and how to anticipate changing trends. Similarly, sellers are given such invaluable information as how to set a price and make a profit, purchaser's and vendor's rights, timing, withdrawing from an auction, and much more. Also included here is information about acquiring popular and valuable collectables at auction, from pottery and porcelain to juke box players and inkwells. An invaluable guide to any and all types of auction, the A-Z of Antiques and Auctions is essential reading for anyone even thinking about buying or selling antiques.

Michael Hogben began his career as a fashion boutique owner, followed by a brief period as the owner of a wine bar. He entered the antiques trade in the mid-1980s and became a successful art dealer, specializing in Victorian art. He ran his own auction house from 1989 until 2004, and after guest appearances on BBC1's Bargain Hunt Michael went on to star in Auction Man, a 'fly on the wall' look at the everyday workings of Hogben Auctioneers. Today, he presents Name Your Price for Channel 4, a programme in which viewers try to estimate the price of selected items. He also hosts auctions at corporate events, most recently for charities including The Body Shop Foundation, NSPCC and Macmillan Nurses.