This red lacquered sideboard by Jules is a highlight on the stand of Milord Antiques at the New York Winter Show.
From lacquered sideboards to medieval books of hours and a Swedish rococo cabinet to a prized Cork Distilleries sign, antiques fairs are of enormous interest whether the audience is global and international or local.
It tends to make not a whole lot of difference. The popularity of fairs at all levels of the collecting world is undiminished. This is where discoveries are made, inspiration flourishes and new deals are struck.
Upcoming fairs in New York, London and Limerick this month offer an array of breathtaking objects to stimulate the imagination of any collector.
The biggest is The Winter Show in New York. Long located at the Park Avenue Armory in Manhattan this annual US highlight with dealers from Europe and the United State has a global reach. Taking place from January 24 to February 2 the 71st edition of the fair will feature rare and exceptional art and antiques from antiquity to day with over 70 exhibitors.
Les enluminures will bring this 15th century Book of Hours to the Winter Show in New York.
Among them are Milord Antiques from Montreal with 20th century design, antique furniture and artworks. They will feature a red lacquered sideboard by Jules with gold leaf, etched motif and brass legs. Jules Leleu (1883-1961) was the winner of the grand prize at the 1925 Exposition in Paris. Among his many commissions were designs for the ocean liners Ile de France and Normandie, huge signifiers of 20th century style, luxury and glamour.
At another point of the collecting spectrum Les Enluminures of Chicago, Paris and New York will highlight a c1480-90 Book of Hours from Rouen, an illuminated manuscript in Latin and French with 12 full page miniatures by the Master of Raoul Du Fou.
Christopher Hall Antiques will bring this 18th century Rococo cabinet from Sweden to London’s Decorative Fair.
In London the Winter Decorative Fair at Battersea Park kicks off next Tuesday (January 21) and continues until January 26. Launched specifically for the interiors market in 1985 by a dealer in decorative antiques, The Decorative Fair was an instant hit with designers, decorators and the trade, and has become an internationally renowned thrice-yearly event.
Around 130 exhibitors will display decorative and formal antique furniture, 20th century design, art and collectibles like furniture, lighting and mirrors, rugs, folk and tribal art. Courtesy coaches to Battersea Park will operate from Cliveden Place, SW 1 near Sloane Square underground.
Paul Butler of Kilkenny will bring this Cork Distilleries sign to the National Antiques Fair at Limerick Racecourse next weekend.
The National Antiques Fair at Limerick Racecourse next weekend is a must, especially for those unprepared to make the winter journey to New York or London. This fully indoor event, open from 11 am to 6 pm on January 25 and 26, is brimful with antique shops, art galleries and vintage dealers.
There is art from galleries like Treasures in Athlone, who will bring work by artists like James Brohan and Mark O’Neill, collectibles from La Belle Epoque, militaria and enamel signs from Paul Butler of Kilkenny along with a great collection of vintage fashion, hats and handbags, jewellery, antique furniture, Oriental rugs, old Bakelite radios and even two vintage votive stands in solid brass from Annamoe Antiques. The time to join in the hunt is now.
