Before arriving in Paris Lizzie, Laurie and I had a private brocante at an antique dealer's home in Provence, and if that wasn't the cherry on top of the delicious cake of a time we were having the antique dealer served us lunch. We had a tomato olive tart that I asked for the recipe and will have to share.
From the floor to the ceiling brocante finds from the couple's twenty-five years of antiquing gathered. My eyes did not rest. How lucky that after years of antiquing/brocanting in France I have not only learned about antiques and the history of such pieces but more importantly I have met such interesting creative people who have become dear friends.
The antique dealer showed us her home which I left a trail of drool from one room to the other, the collection of gilded frames with seventeen-century oil paintings were just lovely. All of them I wanted, and thankfully they were not for sale. Restraint comes with things I cannot have.
On a dresser she had a collection of wine decanters, candy jars and oil lamps.
I felt so happy to see someone had collected more than I had and had boxes upon boxes, cupboards, and armoires and under their bed stuffed with fabulous finds. The Brocante Bug has bitten them more than once.
Laurie and Lizzie had a field day exploring inside those "treasure chests".
The week went so fast, we had plenty more we wanted to see and do, but time did not permit it. Oh well, more to explore next time!
We arrived in Paris.
And the fun continues. I want to know how I am going to go back to normal life after this trip?
Laurie knew of a shop that she said we had to go see. Oh, man was she right about that. So clever. Philippe designs and makes clothes using wool and silks that he dyes himself with pigments he blends. He also uses antique linen sheets to make many of his clothing line that he sells all over the world.
Plus he creates art from antique clothing. We also went to see his work studio and see his newest collection that he was sending to Japan.
Happy Camper am I to discover new places to visit and meet inspiring new friends.
Who needs the catwalk when Lizzie is
styling on the sidewalk.
Autumn in Paris!
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