Why do we buy these old things, anyway?

Why do we love to go shopping for our antique and collectible objects of interest? What is it that drives us to search the countryside and city wide looking for that one special piece that we believe we cannot live without? Just recently, we were on our way for a mini vacation in Newport, Rhode Island when I decided to take a detour and search for an antique store that specialized in art deco items. Upon arriving at the location the outside looked like a normal run of the mill antique store. You know the kind. It's the type I may have easily driven right by without stopping. When we entered the shop I knew I hit pay dirt. The store was full of art deco designed lamps, mirrors, furniture, and many other objects of art deco style. I thought I went to heaven and knew I was going home with at least one object. The women in the store was quite friendly and offered a ten percent discount on all items. I always try for a higher discount especially if I buy more than one item. However, in this case the saleslady (owner) was adament about not offering more than ten percent stating that it was the standard for the industry. I spent much time browsing the objects considering a number of different lamps. The most valuable lamps were manufactured in the 1920s-1930s by Frankart or Nuart. I ended my shopping spree by purchasing three different gorgeous pieces. I was one happy camper!