About

The wonder of West End Antiques

Do you have an ongoing curiosity, love experiencing the history of antiques and enjoy seeking and finding amazing treasures of beauty? So do we. Those have remained the driving forces of West End Antiques.

Because of his passion for all things about antique Asian and Tribal antique craftmanship, Mike Banks has earned a reputation for his knowledge of Chinese, Asian and Tribal treasures and he is always available to share stories and his knowledge.

With over 40 years of finding handmade artwork and bringing them to customers around the world, visiting West End Antiques is like a journey in time. West End Antiques is the oldest and most trusted name in Asian and Tribal works of art in the Midwest (founded in 1973). For over 40 years Michael Banks Appraisal Service has been helping owners understand Fair Market Value.

Blame it on his Mom. When he was 6-years old, his mother, Lola, a student at the Art Institute of Chicago, left him with the guard in the Chinese rooms where he fell in love with Chinese pottery. Since that time he has sold, appraised, and written about and collected it and other Asian and tribal art and retains the passion and curiosity collectors share.

So why is it called West End Antiques? The first sale was made on Bond St. in the West End of London. London’s West End has a great history of curiosity shops and International trade. The name brought the past to the future.

Come for a visit, stay for tea and cookies or shop online. We're happy to see you.

Contact Mike with any questions or comments.

West End Antiques, Inc. accepts American Express, Visa, Mastercard, Cashiers Checks, Money Orders and Personal Checks.  (Personal checks must clear before delivery).

All items sent by Federal Express or USPS are insured.  All sales subject to Illinois Sales Tax.

All pieces guaranteed with 10 business days to return for full refund.

Michael Banks – Abstract of Credentials

A history of learning, sharing and physically living with so many Chinese, Japanese, Asian and Tribal antiques-Mike continues to live by his seasoned eye.

Antiquities hunter, storyteller and bon vivant

President, West End Antiques, Inc. (1972 to present)

• Accreditation

• Member New England Appraisers Association

  Industry leader

• Arts and Antiques Editor:  L'Officiel/U.S.

• Instructor of Asian and Tribal Art Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design

• Nationally and Internationally published writer, lecturer., and TV commentator

• Frequent appearance on cable television.

  Published Author

• Published Articles include: Japanese Woodblock Prints, Netsuke, Early Chinese Pottery, Religion and Art in the Northern Wei Dynasty, Rose Medallion Porcelain, Chinese Nephrite Jade, Chinese Export Paintings, Indian Art: Bronzes, Turkoman Tribal Rugs, Jewels in the Tomb (also available in Chinese), Stone Carvings of the Northern Wei, English furniture, Irish glass, Indian bronzes, walking sticks, etc..

• Publisher of acclaimed works on Art and History:  "The Life and Times of Japanese Print Masters"  by Donald Kahn.

  Education

• Florida State University, B.A. Philosophy

• University of Wisconsin, Postgraduate work Philosophy

• Cambridge University, Certificate of Research Philosophy