Modern the on Market Randall Decoteau Wendell Castle: Massive Wenge console table with polychrome stalagmite supports; carved signature, Castle 98; 39in. x 96in. x 20in. Estimate: $10,000-15,000. Photo courtesy Rago Arts and Auction Center, Lambertville, N.J., www.ragoarts.com. “M odern antiques” may seem an oxymoron, but twentieth-century antiques have overcome some initial reluctance to allow them into the world of “real” antiques, and are now securely established as an important sector of the antiques business. NEAJ wondered how this market segment was faring in these uncertain times. To find out, we interviewed a leading member of the trade in each of four market sectors – a group shop, a dealer, an auctioneer and a show promoter. Jim Tindell/Paul Plumadore, Center44, 222 East 44th Street, New York, NY 10017, (212) 450-7988, www. center44.com Mark McDonald, 555 Warren Street, Hudson, NY 12534 (518) 828-6320, www.markmcdonald.biz David Rago, Rago Arts, 333 North Main Street, Lambertville, NJ 08530, (609) 397-9374, www.ragoarts.com Joan Tramontano, Stella Show Mgmt. Co., (973) 808-5015, www. stellashows.com NEAJ: What’s your general opinion of the state of the twentieth-century antiques market? DAVID RAGO: I consider it an art and design market. I’m seeing modern material, art and design, and to some extent, collectible material. Compared to last year, business is wonderful. We don’t need crazy right now; we need solid and predictable. In modern there’s something for everybody – vinyl, wood, ceramic – it’s all there. Since World War II we’ve seen a 50-year run of freedom in art and design. Page 28 ■ Antiques Journal ■ September 2010