I had great fun at the antique market on Portobello Road this morning. I went to take care of some business and got completely distracted. I couldn’t believe it–plan to go right, and I end up going left. That’s why my children won’t let me drive these days! Anyway, here are a few things I found at the market which I thought I would share with you.
I arrive about 7:30AM, so I ended up in the jewelry dealers paradise with everyone buying everyone else’s merchandise. There were several dealers from the proud shops in central London, and it was fascinating watching them carefully looking over the lovely antique pieces. They all had their jeweler’s glasses, and they were studying and commenting on every piece they were interested in. I found a lovely Victorian brooch with three matching amethysts set in 18K gold. It was in its original box, and it spoke to me. I really enjoyed myself.
While I was waiting for an appointment to arrive, I saw a silk work picture dating to about 1780 which caught my eye. It was 18 inches long and in its original fame–all great condition considering the age. Much of the picture is silk embroidery while the faces and other details are painted on the silk. I inherited one which is a “memorial” to the poet Goethe and is also embroidery on silk with painted features. These are very fragile items, and I love them very much.
A stall with vintage leather cases caught my eye. By then, I had long forgotten my appointments, so off I went wandering down the road. I found this stall where a father and son team their efforts to offer some of the most beautiful cases I have ever seen. The leather is in superb condition, and the quality is wonderful. I really enjoyed chatting with the dealers in the stall, and I knew I had to have an RAF case which was gleaming in the morning sun. It is beautiful, and I am taking it home to the States. Beautiful.
I think that is enough chatter about Portobello Road. It is always so much fun, especially seeing my friends and dealers, year after year. Sad so many of them have died. I particularly miss the old brass dealer from Denmark. She was so knowledgeable.
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
