The brocantes (flea antique markets) in France, are plentiful on any given weekend, especially when spring is in the air, a million more pop up. One of the many brocantes this weekend was in my village. Dealers come from around the area to set up and sale their old wares.
Here is a taste of the smalls you can find at any brocante, little French classics, that are easy to put in your suitcase, not too fragile, and easy to carry.
19th century, hand-woven, linen, dish towels, with a red monogram….
Napolean III oval frames in wood or in tin.
Silverware leather box, underneath the frames, with blue velvet lining.
Bamboo bread basket full of handmade lace.
Vintage, fabric flowers that were used to adorn hats, and dresses. Calling your inner Channel.
Square bird cages, ironstone, candy jars, small oil paintings…. the bust and iron table would be a tad heavy to carry in one's suitcase… but the other smalls are do-able.
When you go to the brocante, remember to open the boxes you see, some of the sweetest surprises are inside.
Antique pieces of jewelry.
Serving piece, especially salad serving pieces.
Old leather bond books, with marbled pages. Here is the deal; Because books are plentiful in France, and because they are heavy to carry if you are tempted to buy more than one- The best thing to do is select what type of book you want to buy, for example- a theme, a style and a period, and only buy books within those guidelines.
Otherwise, you will have a library in a blink of an eye, and have to charter your own plane.
Engravings... the hardest decision would be to pick which ones you liked the most. Engraving are everywhere. You can find them with your eyes closed, they literally jump at your feet.
Vintage jewelry. It never fails… More often than not I am more attracted to the fabric they are attached to, and the dealers usually think I am NUTS for asking if they want to sell the fabric.
Important antiquing rule: It never hurts to ask.
Salt and pepper holders… French and food, French and tabletop wares, forks, knives, silver, dishes, tureens, platters, wine bottle holders, … if cooking, or tabletop, or food related items turn you on... DO NOT COME TO FRANCE.
When looking for these "hunter's birdcages" try to find the ones that have pottery pots inside for the bird feed. They are more sought after.
Ready to go.
When are you coming?
Tomorrow I'll show you what I bought.
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