MaterialSpirit's Profile

I know this store and owner, and I doubt he would have claimed that this item is an antique. Wow & Zen sells some antique furniture as well as "cultural objects" and "decorative accessories" from throughout Asia. He usually labels his merchandise with the source and approximate age, so if it is an antique the tag will say so.

These lotus panels are very popular and I have seen them in a variety of places. Some are hand-carved from teak, some are not. Some are thin (and will warp), some are thicker and sturdier. Some are actually resin (often the ones sold in catalogs, so be sure to read the details). And the size is also a major factor. If the square has 3 panels, it is usually a 3-ft. square. If it has 4 panels, it is usually a 4-ft square. Consider that a 4-ft square is actually 55% larger than a 3-ft square and will likely be priced accordingly. (64 sq inches vs 36 sq inches; do the math). The panels also come in 5 and 6 ft squares, so do factor in dimensions when considering price.

Finally, source is another major consideration. As someone pointed out in this conversation string, items like these are being mass produced in Asia. Large chain stores are much more likely to buy from a factory (with poor working conditions and low pay and all that we Americans fear and loathe when purchasing from third world countries). But smaller stores, such as Wow & Zen, are more likely to buy from small family businesses in Asia that operate on "fair trade" principles. So you may pay more, but you're paying a fair price for a hand-made item that is helping to sustain a culturally significant craft and a valuable way of life. I recommend asking the seller about the source when you make such purchaces. And I agree with others that have said that the designer, as supposed expert, holds a lot of responsibility in making an informed choice with the purchase.