Mark O’Neill – Framed by Wisteria at the Treasures stand at Birr antique fair.
Even though it is not on Route 66 antique lovers can get their kicks in Birr this bank holiday weekend. The antique and art fair that runs in conjunction with Birr Vintage Week is at the County Arms Hotel next on August 4 and 5.
With more than 30 dealers in antique furniture, art and collectibles from around the country in attendance this popular fair is a fixture at this time of year – as Birr celebrates all things retro with arts, theatre, music, street theatre, pop up performances, workshops and exhibitions until August 9.
There is treasure to be hunted for and found in this great period setting. The enjoyable and long running antique fair offers huge variety with everything from vintage Persian rugs to fine art, jewellery and antique furniture with collectibles galore.
Rarities include a 31 foot long Persian 1970’s Hamadan runner. It is just 2’8″ wide (9 metres by 900 centimetres). Norman Allison Antiques of Annamore, Co. Wicklow will include it among a selection of handwoven rugs and runners.
A selection of coins of Ireland at Birr antique fair.
Collectibles are always popular and Robert Hutchinson will offer a display of coins, banknotes and militaria including complete selections of coins of Ireland from 1934, 1939 and 1942.
There will be a selection of gold chains and charm bracelets at Eddie Moylan’s stand and vintage jewellery from Cherylann. The Purple Onion Gallery will bring a selection of work by Henry McGrane and other artists from their stable.
Treasures Irish Art of Athlone are stalwart supporters of this fair. Their selection will include “Framed by Wisteria” by Mark O’Neill and “Lough Inagh” by Grace Cunningham.
Organiser Robin O’Donnell confidently expects a great turnout of both regulars and newcomers to this heart of Ireland annual event. Along with rugs Norman Allison will offer art by the English Victorian landscape painter William Shayer (1787-1879) and a Regency double fusee wall clock. Raymond Byrne will offer small antique furniture pieces, old Irish glass, silver and collectibles.
Fairs like this are great hunting grounds for small pieces of silver, old Irish glass, fashion and accessories. You might not even know you really, really wanted it until you see it.
And if the wait until Monday proves to be too much then the Royal Marine Hotel in Dun Laoghaire is the venue for the south Dublin antiques, vintage and more fair tomorrow (August 3). This fair will offer antique and vintage furniture and interior decor, fine art, vintage kitchen and tableware, jewellery, rare books and memorabilia.
Dun Laoghaire is one of the most popular venues on the Vintage Ireland calendar of fairs.
A double fusee wall clock at Birr antique fair.
