1 What’s really exciting about the antiques trade right now?
The ability to market worldwide. We stand in the first quarter of the 21st century and as a dealer I have a shop in South Africa, a cyber store through my website and I can participate in top fairs such as LAPADA.
These platforms, along with the current technology, means I can market my unique inventory across the globe.
2 What is one challenge that buyers and collectors face?
Access to expertise and curating guidance from specialists.
3 Why should buyers shop at fairs?
Fairs are the place to shop. The amount of exposure and publicity I can generate, along with the chance of selling the piece, is what makes them important to me. I use it as a stage to show my best finds and latest discoveries and when you have more than 100 of the UK’s top dealers in one venue doing the same, the synergy created delivers a world-class shopping experience.
4 What is one thing you wish buyers would talk to you about more?
What drives them to collect in their chosen field – this information helps me to source pieces that will keep them coming back.
5 What is one great discovery you’ve made?
An impressive George III silver seven-light figural candelabra, marked for London 1806 by Joseph Preedy, for the Earl of Charleville for his castle in Ireland (pictured on opposite page). It was in a private collection in South Africa for at least 40 years and I am bringing it to the LAPADA fair.
If you would like to be featured in 5 Questions, please contact francesallitt@antiquestradegazette.com
