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. Dealers come from around the area to set up and sell their old wares.
Here is a sample 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.
Linens, in general, are plentiful.
Napolean III oval frames in wood or tin.
Leather covered silverware boxes with blue velvet lining.
Bread baskets
and handmade lace.
Vintage, fabric flowers that were used to adorn hats, and dresses. Calling your inner Chanel.
Tiny bird cages, ironstone, candy jars, small oil paintings, figurines…
When you go to the brocante, remember to open the boxes you see, some of the sweetest surprises are inside.
Fragments and antique pieces of jewelry.
Serving piece, especially salad serving pieces.
Old leather 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. Engravings are everywhere.
You can find them with your eyes closed, they literally jump at your feet.
Fabrics.
Vintage jewelry. It never fails more often than not I am more attracted to the fabric they are attached to and the dealers do not want to sell their display pieces.
Important antiquing rule: It never hurts to ask.
Salt and pepper holders, tabletop wares,
forks, knives, silver, dishes, tureens,
platters, wine bottle holders,
if it has to do with cooking, or dining, or anything food-related related and that type of thing turn you on…
DO NOT COME TO FRANCE.
Because, that stuff is everywhere,
everywhere.
And you will go mad.
I am mad.
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.
See more food related stuff.
France has it all:
Silver, elaborate, rustic, wooden, porcelain, ironstone, crystal…
Ribbons.
Suitcases in case you need another one.
Usually stuffed and ready to go.
Buttons
When are you coming?
The House Next Door and The Tiny House are waiting for you.
Leave a Reply