Freelance
Treasures & Trends
LARRY COX
Question: I recently purchased a Jo Mora lithograph that I think is from the 1930s. I am in the process of having it professionally framed but would like to get an idea of its value for insurance purposes. – Peter, Tucson
Answer: Wayne Kielsmeier, owner of the Covington Art Gallery in Tucson, is one of the region’s most knowledgeable professionals in the field of fine arts. He can probably help you establish a value for your Jo Mora Moro print. Contact the gallery, 6536 E. Tanque Verde Road, at 298-7878. The Web site is covingtongallery.com. The gallery is open 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays or by appointment.
Terry Ahlberg collects the art of Jo Mora – aka J.J. Mora, Joseph J. Mora, and J.M.M. – and might also be able to help you. His address is 17742 Irving Blvd., Suite 101, Tustin, CA 92780.
Although Mora is known throughout the world for his Southwestern murals, charts and diagrams, he was born in Uruguay in 1876. He immigrated to the United States and, after studying his craft in New York, he eventually settled in California. He illustrated books for children about the American West during the final years of his life. He died in 1947.
Q: I have four apple parers that I think are pre-1900. I would like to contact someone to find out if they have any value. – Eric, Tucson
A: Gerald W. Laverty is president of the International Society of Apple Parer Enthusiasts, 735 Cedarwood Terrace, Apt. 735B, Rochester, NY 14609. The group sponsors conventions and publishes a 12-page newsletter for its members. To date, they have documented over 100 different apple parers.
In addition to his work for the Tucson Citizen, Larry Cox writes book reviews and a weekly collectibles column that are syndicated by King Features and distributed throughout the United States and Canada. E-mail: contactlarrycox@aol.com.
Q: I was a member of the Civil Air Patrol during the 1950s and kept my uniform, patches and handbooks. Would anyone be interested in this small collection? – Dan, Tucson
A: Andrew Browning collects, buys, trades and sometimes sells Civil Air Patrol patches and insignia. He might be interested in the items that you have. His address is 1622 34th St. NW, Rochester, MN 55901.