I found the carved wooden head in the second episode as well. I've read that property managers and art directors sometimes store props that they themselves own.
I think what is closer to the truth is that Universal allocated a certain grouping of pieces for each show. When another show went off the air, it's grouping often went to a then current show. There is repetition of many COLUMBO pieces and cross use from BANACEK and even McMILLIAN & WIFE. I bought a large bronze bust from them last year (they have small auctions once a year) used in three episodes.
I think what is closer to the truth is that Universal allocated a certain grouping of pieces for each show. When another show went off the air, it's grouping often went to a then current show. There is repetition of many COLUMBO pieces and cross use from BANACEK and even McMILLIAN & WIFE. I bought a large bronze bust from them last year (they have small auctions once a year) used in three episodes.