Khristi Zimmeth: Trash or Treasure?

Collector's always sniffing out dog images

Dogs may be man's best friend, but they're also a favorite theme for many collectors, including Grosse Pointe Shores resident Margie Prokop. "I've always been attracted to dog portraits and things with images that look like pets, like someone's favorite buddy," she explains. "I've never been attracted to the formal portraits of the sporting or hunting dogs. I like the mutts." As part of our occasional series on local collectors, we caught up with her to find out what she collects and why.

How long have you been collecting dog images?

About 20 years, I guess. I started with a few portraits and then started collecting dog-themed plates and transferware, and then I found some pillows and some statues, a couple of door stops ... before I knew it, I had a collection. What ties them all together is that they all have the same charming look. I had dogs when the kids were younger, and I guess I would say I'm more of a dog person. I think dogs add a warm, cozy feel to a home ... you can't be too much of a perfectionist.

Do you have a favorite?

My favorite piece is probably the first one I bought. It's a painting of a really hairy black-and-white dog that has a very innocent and sweet face. That's what always attracts me, the face. It's in my living room. Another favorite piece is a new needlepoint pillow from the Ralph Lauren store. I saw it at Somerset, and my husband gave it to me for Christmas. I love it. The dog looks like a ragtag spaniel -- definitely not a show dog. I like the ragtag dogs. I also have a spaniel ashtray that was my uncle's and has great sentimental value.

What are you on the hunt for?

I'd love more old needlepoint pillows, but you really don't see them that often. I like natural things -- feathers, shells, butterflies and birds. I also collect brown transferware, bird plates and a few primitives. I don't mind if things are a little tattered. It all fits together and is one of my favorite looks.

Best bargain you've found?

Probably the pair of old Staffordshire pottery dogs that sit on my fireplace. I was at an estate sale, and the person had several sets of them. There was a large set marked $300. I called her after the sale, and she said she would take $150 for the pair. I originally intended to give one to a friend, but I still have it. I decided I couldn't split them up.

What's the most you have paid?

Probably about $200, but I don't go for the really large or famous portraits. I'll mix new ones in with old ones if they have the right look. I even bought two little ones at T.J. Maxx."

Favorite places to shop?

I'm always looking. I bought one dog when my daughter was in school in Ann Arbor. I buy them when I travel and have brought many things home in my suitcase.

Marney Rich Keenan's column will return. Do you have an object that you'd like to know more about? Send a photo and a description that includes how you acquired the object to: The Detroit News, Trash or Treasure/Homestyle, 615 W. Lafayette Blvd., Detroit, MI 48226. Include your name and a daytime phone number. You may also e-mail your photo and description to trashortreas@aol.com. If chosen, you'll need to bring the item in for appraisal. Photos cannot be returned.