"Irish paintings have become the most collectable of commodities in this boom time for the Irish economy. However, it is not the same as 1989 when prices exceeding everyone's expectations were paid for all manner of art, including the mediocre. This time, the only surprises are the new high levels which wealthy individuals will pay for the more exceptional works which come to the market.

The less-than-exceptional works are making prices which reflect their quality and this approach to the art market by collectors is to be lauded. The demand for high-quality paintings by both mainstream and rare artists of the 1860-1940 period is destined to continue for the foreseeable future, and while the money is available vendors will be tempted to offer pictures to the market. Once again, the market has displayed a liking for bright, cheerful paintings which give you a lift, but the importance of the artist's place in Irish art history is of paramount importance. Silver prices in 1997 continued to rise and should continue to do so for 1998. However, with few `categories' of design appealing to the discerning collectors and dealers alike, finding the right pieces is proving more and more difficult, and when examples of such come on the market, prices soar. Early Irish Georgian and provincial silver proved popular as the traditionally plain pieces far outshone the heavily chased and engraved examples of the rococo and Victorian periods. Coffee pots, teasets, large salvers, candlesticks and candelabra remained unpopular and difficult to sell. The general trend is towards plain brown furniture, simple classic lines and against the more heavy, ornately-carved Victorian furniture of large proportions. As always, the emphasis on all things is on quality pieces, signed or attributed where possible. Those pieces of furniture which are proving difficult to find are long sets of chairs, anywhere from eight to 14 or 16. There seems to be a new trend for large circular or oval dining tables which are able to accommodate upwards of eight people. Overmantel mirrors are also very sought-after. Last year, there was also a resurgence of interest in sideboards and serving tables; with so many people changing house in 1997, we would expect there to be a scarcity of these items in 1998.

In summation, I feel that the most soughtafter items in 1998 will be oval and circular dining tables, long sets of chairs, good quality and original early Georgian brown furniture, Irish serving tables and silver tables, Regency and neo-classical overmantel mirrors, cellarettes and wine coolers and associated dining furniture. The increased awareness of Irish cabinet-makers, by both trade and private buyers, will drive up prices for signed or identified pieces."