Introducing ISA’s Updated Antiques, Furnishings & Decorative Arts Course Manual

Thursday, May 1, 2025 in Education, Antiques, For Appraisers

In an effort to provide the best education experiences, ISA instructors and staff are constantly working to update course offerings. We are so excited to introduce the latest addition to our available reference library, the new Antiques, Furnishings & Decorative Arts course manual!

After a thorough evaluation of the current material, discussions with students about what they’d like to see purged or added, input from the AFDA committee and consideration of current trends, the AFDA instructors have developed the latest version of the course manual. This edition includes clarifications on methodology, tips for field inspection, more illustrations, and a wealth of updated material. Thank you to everyone whose input made this edition possible—with special thanks to Wendy Holtorff for her formatting expertise!

Some of the new content includes:

• more content on 20th century furnishings and decorative arts
• new chapter on lighting
• updated fashion chapter with information on evaluating luxury goods popular on the market now
• updated chapter in the General Household Contents chapter which includes more on technology and current collectibles
• recommended procedures to help a new appraiser tackle large quantities of items in estates or collections
• guidelines for report writing reflecting the latest standards from USPAP and the ISA appraisal report and writing standards
• more information on selecting proper comparable markets and property
• an appendix with study aides such as an improved timeline of material culture

These are some notable changes. Past students, both from live online and distance education programs, have suggested many other adaptations that have been integrated. The manual will be available in both bound and downloadable pdf formats by late summer.

This survey course aims to help generalist appraisers understand the types of property they encounter in the field, enabling them to gather crucial information effectively while on-site. Specialist appraisers can hone their skills in their area of expertise while gaining knowledge about other types of property to expand their practice. The material is broad enough to introduce Fine Arts specialists to the basic skills necessary to develop connoisseurship in this type of property. Everyone will learn to apply the information gathered in the field and through research to create accurate appraisal reports which meet the needs of their clients.

There are some observational skills that are difficult to teach through reading a manual or taking online classes. The upcoming ISA Summer Institute program offers a unique solution to this challenge. This program features a series of in-person lectures, followed by hands-on examination opportunities. This year’s program will be held at Brunk Auctions in beautiful Asheville, North Carolina, from July 23rd to 25th. Nestled in the mountains, Asheville and Brunk Auctions provide an ideal setting for a few days of learning with experts. Enjoy the cool mountain mornings, engaging days of learning and networking, and evenings overlooking the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains while savoring the local cuisine.