I totally agree with you, who the hell needs a dinner/glassware service for 48 people these days? Plus, where the hell would you store all that in a modern house today?
Apologies in advance as I know that some of you here would have previously heard this before.
When I downsized 18 months ago - I sold one third of my 45 year gorgeous gifts/furniture/collectibles as I knew that they had true provenance and "vintage" value in the current market imo, donated another third AND, kept the remainder for my new home. Perfect!
As it happens, I still have some gorgeous MCM furniture pieces and crockery - which I view and use, every single day. If that is not the case, then it has to go!
Actually, when I downsized, I gave my son everything he needed to set up his new home BUT, without the condition that he had to keep any of it. It was just about getting him started in his new single life until he knew, could afford and, decided, what he ultimately prefers and what works best for him. I am not that precious! And, there were no real heirlooms involved, either.
Isn't that what mothers do?