Alfies Antique Market

June Victor: 'I learn about things by going to museums, touching fabric, going to auctions, reading books...'

noreply@blogger.com (Alfies Antique Market) — Fri, 31 Aug 2018 12:56:00 +0000

June Victor at her Stand (SO40-43)

June Victor is a world renowned antiques dealer specialising in textiles and home furnishings. She has a wide collection that includes table linen, lace, dress textiles and furnishings, trimmings and beading, costume jewellery, vintage clothing, hats and ladies’ accessories spanning over 200 years of British and European design. Her knowledge has been honed through years of experience in the antiques trade and her family’s background in couture and design. She has been a dealer at both Grays and Alfies for almost thirty years. I have read that June Victor can spot a genuine 1950's scalloped edged, taffeta ballet length designer evening dress at a hundred paces...

We were fascinated to know how June started and evolved in the word of vintage textiles, so we asked her about her life and Vintage Modes..

June, would you please tells us something about your background?

I came from a background of people that were interested in textiles. My grandmother had a couple of dress shops in the 1920s, on Shaftesbury Avenue, selling beaded dresses and hats. Two of my aunts were dress designers. They used to buy sample beaded dresses in France and reproduced what they saw for the London market. My aunt made cocktail dresses and wedding dresses in the 50s, 60s and 70s under the name of Laura Phillips in Margaret Street.

How did you fit into this?

I worked in the family business mostly in administration and management. In fact I started life as a secretary, but it wasn’t really my thing. Then I got a taste for buying in jumble sales, as they were then, and I started selling. I had a small stall in a market in Brighton in the local Hall, and I was quite successful. I used to run around Sussex buying things. In those days you could buy lovely things. No car, just buses and trains.

What do you look for when you buy?

It changes over the years and I have a lot of stock. There’s more people in the business now and it’s more competitive. I used to do all the markets, and I am doing a lot of work with theatre, opera and film production. But I never did any dressmaking myself. I don’t know how to sew. My aunt had a natural talent, she could make a dress out of nothing. To give you an example, one day her mother went out to the shops and when she came back she found that my aunt had made a dress with a piece of fabric she had found. She did it without a pattern and she was only fourteen years old. She was incredibly skilled. It’s a marvellous talent. I recognise the differences in beadwork but I mostly buy Victorian beadwork which is a different technique to the beaded dresses of the early twentieth century.

Given your vast knowledge, what element makes up your mind what you actually buy?

I have to think about my customers. A lot of them come from theatre, opera and film production. Different people with different aesthetic requirements and different briefs come to me. And you just can’t buy enough trimmings. I am always looking to buy more trimmings and beading of different styles or period. Hats are quite popular at the moment. But I buy a lot on personal likes and dislikes. Even if something looks like it would sell, I don’t buy it because I won’t have the enthusiasm to sell it.

Would you choose one item for us that you are particularly fond of?

This Edwardian bedspread in ecru colour is especially nice. It’s probably from France or Belgium. It has filet lace with cherubs and flower motifs and is interspersed with fine silk net.

Edwardian Bedspread

Close up of the filet lace with cherubs and flower motifs and is interspersed with fine silk net.

Victorian Indian Table Cloth on Silk Shantung unused with gold thread work decoration.

1980's Canadian Couture Cocktail Dress with lace stain bow lace bodice. Estrid Toronto.

1930's Satin Black background embroidered with silk flowers and gilt chain

Late Victorian Crazy Patchwork Silk Quilt Cover

The above image is a close up of the makers name and date finished 1890.

Circa 1910, Royal Blue all-over fringed in blue beads tassel bag.

Black Lace Stilettos with gold rim heels.

Interviewed 16th August 2018 by Titika Malkogeorgou

Gillian Horsup: 'The items I buy have to be distinctive'

noreply@blogger.com (Alfies Antique Market) — Thu, 23 Aug 2018 16:00:00 +0000

Gillian Horsup in her stand

Gillian Horsup has been buying and selling vintage jewellery and accessories in London and the UK for 35 years. Before moving to Alfies Antique Market this summer: she previously shared a stand with Lola of Unicorn in the Mews at Grays Antiques. Gillian, Lola and the rest of The Vintage Modes collective are now based on the Second Floor of Alfies Antiques Market.

We asked her about how she first started in the vintage world...

A view at Gillian's stand

Gillian please tell us how did you start trading in vintage pieces?

I have been trading for 35 years. I started in the vintage world by collecting myself. I lived in the East end of London and used to go to jumble sales as there were lots around my area. I slowly got interested in all sorts of antiques and in particular Art Deco pieces, mostly jewellery. I had a young family and I've done various jobs- I worked in teaching and as a secretary. At the same time I started doing fairs. I don’t know how I did it. But I did it. I’ve been everywhere. I’ve done Covent Garden Market, Greenwich Market, and I had a shop for years in Camden Passage. When that closed down I moved to Grays Mews and was then trading with Unicorn from Bond street.

Could you tell us what has changed in the vintage world throughout this time?

There aren't as many Antique Events on any more and the number of markets is shrinking. Alfies is great because it is a dedicated space. I’ve done various things but in the end I decided I wanted to be indoors. My family changed and I didn’t want to carry things anymore-I still end up carrying. What has changed all those years is different shopping patterns but most startlingly is the venues. It’s difficult to find Art Deco events in the London area anymore because the venues are so expensive. People want variety and here we have a bit of everything- glasses, compacts, ring boxes, fans, pins, hats, bags, jewellery from pearls to early plastic.

We are very intrigued to know how do you choose your stock?

I buy anything that catches my eye, and anything I like. We have such a variety of customers that I can’t restrict myself to a specific era or style. I used to specialise in Art Deco, but it doesn’t pay to be a specialist anymore. I look for items with good style and of good quality- I don’t like boring.

What do you consider boring?

I consider boring anything that I see lots of or that I do not notice at all. The items I buy have to be distinctive in their specific field and a little different. They have to stand out. They have to say hello to me.

Would you like to choose a piece for us that you're particularly fond of and tell us something about it?

My favourite items at the moment are Czech glass jewellery. I love items that people have taken care in the making of. You are dealing with objects created by skilled workers and skilled designers.

Interviewed 21st August 2018 by Titika Malkogeorgou

We've photographed some of our favourite distinctive items now available in Gillian's shop...

Vintage green and gilt chains earrings

Gold Tone Diamante Snake Brooch

Lea Stein Half Colerette Brooch

Audrey Hepburn: Beyond the Screen

noreply@blogger.com (Alfies Antique Market) — Fri, 17 Aug 2018 16:25:00 +0000

Audrey Hepburn, born 88 years ago today, remains a constant source of inspiration. An actress and humanitarian, Hepburn was renowned for her elegant and timeless style and gamine beauty. ‘Audrey Hepburn: Beyond the Screen’ at the Proud Gallery revisits classic and timeless portraits celebrating Hepburn’s legacy on the 25th anniversary of her death. The Proud Gallery exhibition will display rare portraits of Hepburn, captured by a number of high profile twentieth-century photographers- Terry O’Neill, Norman Parkinson, Bob Willoughby, Eva Sereny, Mark Shaw and Douglas Kirkland.

From a photograph of a 24-year old Audrey on the set of Sabrina having her hair towel dried to a poised Audrey in a pale pink Givenchy - we’ve included some of the stand-out images below.

Audrey Hepburn Being Towel Dried, taken by Mark Shaw in 1953. Image courtesy of Proud Galleries

Audrey Hepburn photographed in Paris by Douglas Kirkland, 1965. Image courtesy of Proud Galleries

Audrey Hepburn, photographed in Italy by Norman Parkinson, 1955. Image courtesy of Proud Galleries

Audrey Hepburn’s acting career and influential fashions are widely documented, but lesser-known are the struggles of her early life. Born in 1929 to a Dutch baroness, Hepburn studied ballet throughout her formative years and had ambitions of becoming a professional dancer. After the Nazis invaded the country, Hepburn and her mother struggled to survive under occupation. She helped the resistance movement by delivering messages and performing secret dance shows to raise money for the cause. Hepburn relocated to London after the war ended where she worked as a chorus girl in the West End. After after a steady stream of minor roles, she was eventually cast as the titular role in the Broadway production of Gigi.

Audrey Hepburn rose to fame after her starring role in the 1953 classic ‘Roman Holiday’- the tale of Hepburn’s European princess and Gregory Peck’s American reporter captured audience’s hearts and introduced the world to Hepburn’s gamine beauty.

Audrey’s next film Sabrina not only confirmed her status as one of Hollywood's finest but introduced her to the designer to whom she would become muse - Hubert de Givenchy. The two quickly struck up a friendship and their resulting working relationship went on to span 40-years ending only on Hepburn’s death in 1993. He dressed her for a total of seven films, including timeless films such as Funny Face and Breakfast at Tiffany’s. Givenchy also went on to design the actress' personal ensembles, including her wedding dress for her wedding to Italian psychiatrist, Andrea Dotti in 1969.

Just as Hepburn’s films became imminently rewatchable classics, so her style endures.

Vintage fashion and jewellery is the perfect way to incorporate that classic Hepburn style into your wardrobe and there are plenty of special pieces to choose from here at Alfies. We’ve selected a few of our current favourites…

Proud Central Exhibition: Audrey Hepburn Beyond the Screen is on from 17 August to 20 September 2018. You can find out more here

1950s Rhinestone Tiara. Available from Linda Bee

1970s Burberry Trench Coat. Available from June Victor

1960s Black French Couture Dress with bow. Available from June Victor

Faux Pearls . Available from Gillian Horsup Vintage Jewellery

1950s Cat Eye Sunglasses. Available from Gillian Horsup Vintage Jewellery

1960s Navy Patent Leather Handbag. Available from Dream Retro

Bakelite glorious Bakelite

noreply@blogger.com (Alfies Antique Market) — Thu, 09 Aug 2018 15:36:00 +0000

We live in a world of alternatives, and Bakelite was one of the first major alternatives developed in the world of materials. The material was originally created to replace shellac and celluloid, and by extension all objects replicated by early plastics such as ivory, bone, metal and jade.

‎Bakelite was developed by the Belgian-American chemist Leo Baekeland in 1907 when he began to investigate the reactions of phenol and formaldehyde in his home laboratory. The first synthetic plastic, Bakelite was marketed as ‘The Material of a Thousand Uses’. The creation of a new synthetic plastic was a breakthrough due to the material’s electrical non-conductivity and heat resistance.

The Bakelite moulding process was both time and cost efficient as the mould could be removed from the process before cooling. The smooth polished surface that resulted meant that Bakelite objects required less finishing with millions of parts duplicated quickly and cheaply decreasing production time. Mouldings retain their shape and are resistant to heat, electricity, scratches, and solvents.

During World War I, Bakelite was used widely, particularly in electrical systems. Later on, as telephones and radios became common household consumer goods and the car industry developed, Bakelite was everywhere.

In its glory days of the 1930s and 1940s, it was an inexpensive alternative to high-end jewellery imitating natural materials such as jade and pearl. In the early 1920s, it became popular in the fashion world, when Coco Chanel used Bakelite bracelets in her costume jewellery collections. Elsa Schiaparelli also adopted Bakelite accessories as an alternative to naturally sourced materials and Breitling used Bakelite for presentation boxes for their watches.

By the 1930s, Bakelite was used in games like chess and dominoes and for poker chips. Easier and lighter than its alternatives and in a variety of colours and shapes, Bakelite offered designers a creative edge. During World War II, Bakelite was still going strong. It was used in wartime equipment including pilot's goggles and field telephones, and even for patriotic wartime jewellery! In the 1950s it began to decline in popularity as cheaper and higher quality plastics became available.

Recently, it has assumed a cult status and objects are fashionable and collectable. Bakelite in its various styles and shapes is displayed in museums and sold by specialists and auctioneers. The appeal of Bakelite items is simultaneously nostalgic and contemporary- it represents an era of increasing affluence and modernisation, as consumers took advantage of previously out-of-reach fashion and consumer goods.

We’ve put together a selection of Bakelite items available at Alfies.

Bakelite jewellery - bangles, brooches, dress clips etc, available from Gillian Horsup Vintage Jewellery

A selection of bakelite items at Paola & Iaia's stand

Art Deco bakelite table light, available from Thirteen Interiors

Pyramid 1929 Bakelite Telephone, available from Thirteen Interiors

Written by Titika Malkogeorgou

The Royal Academy Show: Art Made and Exhibited Now

noreply@blogger.com (Alfies Antique Market) — Thu, 02 Aug 2018 15:13:00 +0000

The Royal Academy is home to immense artistic activity and is steeped in history. The Great Spectacle and the Summer Exhibition are both on from 12 June to 19 August at the RA.

The 'Summer Exhibition' at the Royal Academy has exhibited every summer for the past two hundred and fifty years old. As the world has changed dramatically, so too has the art that makes it into the galleries of the Royal Academy for the Summer Exhibition. Paintings, sculpture, drawings and architectural designs by household names are displayed alongside work by first-time exhibitors. The Summer Exhibition is a high-profile platform for both established and lesser-known contemporary artists.

This year, Grayson Perry RA and his committee of fellow artists have handpicked over 1,300 artworks in an array of mediums. The exhibition extends across the RA's newly-expanded cultural campus, with prints on display in The Sackler Wing of Galleries and a “room of humour” in the new Ronald and Rita McAulay Gallery featuring David Shrigley and Martin Parr. The art extravaganza even spills out into the streets of London’s West End with an installation of over 200 flags designed by Royal Academicians.

The Great Spectacle is staged to coincide with the Summer Exhibition of 2018 and is a survey of its history. The exhibition will remember important moments and celebrated figures in the Royal Academy's history. Graduates and teachers, Sir John Soane and J. M. W. Turner: influential painters, Constable and Stubbs: friendly rivals, Gainsborough and Reynolds: and unique pieces donated by collectors such as Taddeo Tondo, a marble relief by Michelangelo.

The RA Summer Exhibition and Great Spectacle allows us to retrace our artistic roots and through an array of mediums in an ever-changing art world. We don’t know what the future of art is but we can find a slice of art heritage in our galleries.

In celebration of the summer season at the Royal Academy, we've rounded up a selection of contemporary art available here at Alfies.

Wooden sculpture, c1960s, signed. Available from Robinson Antiques

Nike of Samothrace bronze sculpture, c1960s, available from Cupio Gallery

Large sculptural bronze vase, signed Nuro. 1980s. Available from The Moderns

Contemporary painting. Available from Thomas Fine Art

Titled The Four Grey Ladies, 1982 water colour and gouache painting by R P Lister. Available from John Cserny Fine Arts

The Great Spectacle and the Summer Exhibition are both on from 12 June to 19 August at the RA.

Written by Titika Malkogeorgou

Summer Garden Party Style

noreply@blogger.com (Alfies Antique Market) — Thu, 26 Jul 2018 10:06:00 +0000

Summer is in full swing and with scorching temperatures set to continue- there’s no better way to celebrate than with a garden party!

Earlier this month, the Queen hosted the annual Summer Garden Party at Holyrood Palace. Each summer, the Queen hosts three Garden Parties at Buckingham Palace, and one at the Palace of Holyrood House in Scotland.

Garden parties have been held at Buckingham Palace since the 1860s when Queen Victoria hosted what were known as ‘breakfasts’ (though confusingly they took place in the afternoon).

Historically, the annual garden parties were very much high society events with the presentation of debutantes and attendance of nobility.

From 1958 onward the parties departed from their haute monde beginnings and evolved into a way of recognising and rewarding public service.

Though rooted in royalty, the British public has embraced the tradition of the garden party which has become an essential facet of the summer social calendar.

With so many opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors, we’re making the most of it by getting dressed up.

So whether it’s a relaxed BBQ or an elegant soiree, we’ve rounded up a selection of elegant jewellery available here at Alfies that will add that extra special touch to your summer party outfit…

Circa 1900 French Platinum Diamond and Enamel Pendant. Available from Kieron Reilly

Victorian Gold Scarf Clip with Natural Pearls. Available from Gareth Brooks

A Victorian Silver, Amethyst and Moonstone Brooch. Available from Arabella Bianco

Victorian 18ct Emerald Pearl and Diamond Brooch, Circa 1880. Available from Kieron Reilly

Victorian Natural Sea Water Pearl and Diamond Ring, Circa 1890. Available from Kieron Reilly

Trifitail Gold Plated Bracelet with Faux Pearls. Available from Gillian Horsup Vintage Jewellery

Linda Bee: I love quality but I am not a classicist

noreply@blogger.com (Alfies Antique Market) — Thu, 19 Jul 2018 13:14:00 +0000

Linda Bee has been trading with Bennie Gray’s businesses for most of her life. She has been part of Alfies, Barrett street market, Grays Antiques, and now she is back in Alfies and has joined forces with the Vintage Modes ladies.

Linda Bee in her stand

I asked her about her early days in the vintage trade.

I was very shy as a child and when I changed my school from Soho to Victoria my new teachers said that I should go to Art School. I wanted to but I did not want to leave my friends. I was creative and I wanted to do creative things, but mostly get involved with fashion. I wanted to go into hairdressing or design. Instead I ended up working in an office. However, soon I was running a hat shop. That experience changed my life. It was the seventies. I moved to Chiltern street. There were all sorts of interesting shops there and the Chiltern Fire House was still a working fire station.

I was working for Diane Logan and my life changed overnight. Diane Logan was the sister-in-law of Andrew Logan, the artist. Through them I met fascinating people and glamorous personalities of the London art scene, Andrew Logan the artist, Pauline Stone the model, Fenella Fieldings the actress, Derek Jarman the film director, Divine the actor. At the time Diane (Logan) would love going to jumble sales and bring back things into the shop to sell. It was all sorts of extraordinary objects.

In my break I used to go to Barrett Street, near Oxford Street, which was a market owned by Alfies' founder Bennie Gray. It was very similar to Alfies, but there were also stalls outside on the street which people could rent very cheaply. Then I could sell my findings from the market in the hat shop. I was desperate to become a dealer of vintage fashion and I had this boyfriend who said to me "Bee you can be anything you want to be!". He really encouraged me to explore my passion for fashion, so I rented a unit in Alfies as soon as it opened, he built it for me. I was there the very first day Alfies opened. I was located near the entrance, on the ground floor. But I was inexperienced and didn’t really like it. A friend of mine offered to buy the stall and I moved my new business to Barrett street. I carried on trading there until Bennie sold the market and all we moved to Grays Antiques.

I don’t have any difficulty choosing stock. It’s more a matter of having the resources to expand my collection the way I like it. When I was little and my father wanted to take me out to the park, I always wanted to go and look at the shops on Bond Street. When I read Collette this phrase impressed me: "The shop windows of Paris are my changing museums, and although I love museums, I find that shops reflect life more. They inspire me".

My collection is multifaceted. If you are artistic you can’t be limited. I am inspired by all artistic expressions in art and design. I love interiors and dressing people. I would describe my collection as eclectic and very theatrical. I like quality and haute couture, Chanel, Schiaparelli, Dior. But I especially like anything that catches my eye, which could be inexpensive 1950s but with great design. My customers are themselves people of the theatre, other dealers, Americans, Europeans, people who appreciate glamour. I am just not a classicist!

We had a browse around Linda's shop and spotted lots of covetable objects, see below...

Linda Bee at Vintage Modes | Second Floor, S048/49 | 07956 276 384 | lindabeeretro@gmail.com

Written by Titika Malkogeorgou

Pavlos S. Pavlou: I was born a collector

noreply@blogger.com (Alfies Antique Market) — Thu, 12 Jul 2018 11:02:00 +0000

One of our new dealers here at Alfies is also one of our long established numismatics dealers that came from Grays Mews. A global authority on coins of European and Middle Eastern origin, encompassing the Middle Ages and Renaissance period, Pavlos is well known in the numismatic world. I started our interview by asking him some questions about the origins of his becoming an antique’s dealers.

Pavlos in his stand, S011

Pavlos, please tell us how did it all start?

I started full time in 2003. I used to catalogue coins for Bonham’s Auctioneer’s for 15 years.

How did you become involved with Bonham’s?

I was always interested in coins. I was working in banking for 29 years and during that time I was basically a collector. So when I was made redundant I became employed in the numismatics.

Is this how your passion for coins started?

My passion for coins started in 1965. I was already a collector of coins by then, but 1965 is my benchmark. My father had a shop and I was helping out sometimes. I remember an incident which marked me; it was when I gave this old lady a Churchill crown as change. She threw it back at me because she thought I was cheating her. The Churchill crowns were commemorative as they had just come out after Churchill’s death. That experience shocked me because I thought coins were beautiful.

My father owned an Import Export Company. So he travelled a lot for work. Whenever he came back from abroad, I used to take all his change. I was totally fascinated by the different styles and designs. I remember him coming back from Italy and seeing those coins. The images on them looked like Greek goddesses. They were Roman Goddesses of course. But I collect stamps too. And I collect paper money. I was born a collector.

How do you source your stock?

I am known in the numismatic world. I buy at auctions and from other dealers. I also go to Fairs and I belong to clubs. I am a member of the Royal Numismatic Society.

Would you like to say something about your favourite pieces?

I studied History of Art, History and Latin, and my stock reflects my interest in Ancient Greek and Roman coins, Byzantine and European Medieval collections. I am also a specialist in Ancient Egyptian coins. As a matter of fact I started with Egyptian, because they were cheap at the time. Now the tables have turned and they are the most expensive. I collect and deal in Ptolemaic and Roman Egyptian coins.

Could you point to an item in your collection that is very special to you?

Well, I love the coins of the Crusades and of the Byzantine Empire. I see them as my heritage. In particular the period since Anastasius I, who, as you know, is a Saint in Greek Orthodox Church, is very important to me. And I specialise in Armenian coins too. My paternal grandmother is Armenian you know, and so I have a particular attachment to the Amenian culture and heritage. It’s a romantic thing. I am a romantic at heart.

BYZANTINE EMPIRE. Phocas AD 602-610. AV.Solidus

CRUSADER STATES. CYPRUS. James II AD 1460-1473. AR.Gros.'Coronation issue'

ARMENIA. Levon I AD 1198-1219.AR. Double Tram. (5.67g, 27.1mm, 3h)

ITALY. VENICE. Nicolo Tron (1471-1473), Silver Trono (or Lira of 20-Soldi)

Pavlos S. Pavlou | S011 | Second Floor Gallery

Written by Titika Malkogeorgou

Art Night, 2018

noreply@blogger.com (Alfies Antique Market) — Fri, 06 Jul 2018 14:14:00 +0000

Art Night 2018 on Saturday 7th July

Untitled. Image courtesy of Art Night London

Hayward Gallery. Image courtesy of Art Night London

Battersea Power Station. Image courtesy of Art Night London

Art Night 2018 is London's largest free contemporary art festival. This year it falls this weekend, Saturday 7th July, from 6pm to 6am. Each year the festival partners with a leading art gallery and curator, focusing on a different area of London to discover its unique identity, culture and architecture though a variety of art forms.

The focus of this year's festival is transforming the Thames riverbank between the South Bank and Battersea Power Station, via Vauxhall and Nine Elms, showcasing iconic and off-the-beaten venues with artworks and pop up performances in over sixty locations. All 12 events in the programme are curated by the Hayward Gallery and are free and open to all without tickets. Please note that all of the 50 plus events in the Art Night Open are free, but that a small number are ticketed. The programme will feature a range of contemporary art, ranging from immersive multimedia installation and visual reality to interactive experiences, special screenings and live music.

Inspired by one of the biggest art events this summer, then look no further and come and visit us here at Alfies where you will find a wonderful array of fine art, paintings, prints, sculpture, decorative pieces and more waiting to be discovered..

A lesson in wasted morals, oil on canvas, early 19th century. John Cserny at Alfies.

An abstract painting by James Arnold Martin, contemporary, British. Mark Eaton at Alfies.

Large silver hollow lidded pendant, 12th century, Afghanistan. Marko Pollo at AlFayez, Alfies.

16th century Iznic border tile. Ottoman, Turkey. Antique Choices at AlFayez, Alfies Antique Market.

An English landscape with figures, oil on canvas, 19th century. John Cserny at Alfies.

Mid century painting 'Exhausted Nanny'. Diplomat Treasures International at Alfies

Royal Ascot: Racegoers, Very Proper and Properly English

noreply@blogger.com (Alfies Antique Market) — Thu, 21 Jun 2018 15:21:00 +0000

We have put Royal Ascot on our calendars to welcome summer and a high season of sport and social events that epitomise elegance; and not only. The days at Royal Ascot are full of activity and entertainment with the finest things of life and in glorious weather (we hope)! With over a three hundred year old history, change and consistency are battling each other. In the process they are reinventing the game and the experience.

For the early 18th century racegoers the entertainment included ballad singers, gaming tents, jugglers and much more besides. A ceremonial guard in velvet uniforms, the Greencoats, was established in 1744. As the event becomes more popular, the dress code is more formalised representing different aesthetics to those that originate it. The strict dress code is a more recent practice. It actually dates back to the 19th century rejecting ornate fashion and establishing the man’s tailored suit and necktie. This is not an edgy affair.

It is the most prestigious and spectacular week of racing with guests attending formally dressed – men in morning suits and top hats, and ladies in day dresses – and the Queen arriving with family Members along the track in horse-drawn landaus to mark the opening of the day’s events. All the names of the week’s races have a Royal theme. Jockeys are instructed to wear the colours of their horse’s owners, with colours unique to the owner of each horse.

Associated with the Royal British family the race courts came into existence in the early eighteenth century, founded by Queen Anne. The first race, ‘Her Majesty’s Plate’, with a purse of 100 guineas was held in August 1711. Subsequent Acts of Parliament in the nineteen century cemented the event by establishing the Ascot Authority to manage the racecourse. The world’s finest racehorses compete in more than £7 million prize money. There are three enclosures for guests, with the Royal Enclosure being the most prestigious one.

The race courts were redeveloped in the 1960s. A massive redevelopment followed, and was completed in 2006. It drew criticism for benefiting hospitality at the expense of viewing. But the event kept growing in significance and numbers. In Royal Ascot everything changes, so that everything can stay the same.

Royal Ascot's synonymousness with sartorial elegance is a delight to observe. The event is underway (until 23 June), bringing with it another flamboyant display of hats. See our pick of the most attention-grabbing hats at Alfies, from statement-making to delicate headpieces....

Tuille hat, available from June Victor at Vintage Modes

1960s brown straw floral hat, available from June Victor at Vintage Modes

1960s Chiffon hat, available from June Victor at Vintage Modes

Edna Wall 1960s hat, available from June Victor at Vintage Modes

1970s Jean Muir turban, available from June Victor at Vintage Modes

1950s floral straw hat, available from June Victor at Vintage Modes

Vintage white yellow and blue hat, available from June Victor at Vintage Modes

Written by Titika Malkogeorgou

Father's Day Gift Ideas at Alfies

noreply@blogger.com (Alfies Antique Market) — Thu, 14 Jun 2018 14:34:00 +0000

In tribute of Father's Day on the 17th of June, we have put together some inspirational gifts for dad. We think the following ideas are a surefire hit... or, you could buy him his 27th pair of novelty socks. We know what he'd prefer!

Bowie by Dan Reaney. Limited edition acetate/chrome and glitter painting with signed certificate,
available from Planet Bazaar

Silver and onyx cufflinks, 1970s, available from Gloria Sinclair

Vintage bankers lamp by NIAM of France, c1920s, available from Travers Antiques

Leather and silver hipflask, available from Goldsmith & Perris

Cartier 18ct and sapphire tie clip, available from Kieron Rielly

Edwardian collapsible opera top hat, available from Linda Bee

Men's costume jewellery, c1970s ring with ornate shank, diamond cut surface with a matt gold tone,
available from Arabella Bianco

Flower Power

noreply@blogger.com (Alfies Antique Market) — Thu, 07 Jun 2018 13:30:00 +0000

It's officially flower show season! Last month saw the iconic Chelsea Flower Show hosted by the Royal Horticultural Society with many more taking place through the Summer months right up until September. The RHS was founded in London in 1804 and has since become the UK's leading gardening charity. The society aims to promote horticulture making the UK a greener place through their inspirational flower shows, promotion and education.

Here are some of our favourite plant based pieces from around Alfies:

A Monet print, 1970s. Available from Moe Heidarieh

A Chinese prunus vase, 1916. Available from Horner Antiques

A Jean Allen dress, 1960s. Available from June Victor

Flowers in vase painting, signed, 1940s. Available from i Fine & Contemporary Art

An enamel flower scent bottle, 1970s. Available from Gloria Sinclair

A watercolor floral painting by Lucy Kemp Welsh, 1930s. Available from Robert McKoy Fine Arts

A floral button down dress, 1950s. Available from June Victor

A floral painting, oil on board, 1950s. Available from i Fine & Contemporary Art

Glass

noreply@blogger.com (Alfies Antique Market) — Thu, 17 May 2018 13:30:00 +0000

Among some of the most vibrant pieces on show at Alfies right now is lots of coloured glass. Always popular and striking, glass also has huge scope, coming in many forms. Technically known as glass art, Murano is considered to be the birthplace of the modern styles and is still one of the most popular styles of glass available.

As a decorative medium, glass was developed in early Egypt and Assyria and was desired by the Romans. The earliest evidence of glass blowing was found in Chogha Zanbil during excavations where many glass bottles were found and were dated to the 2nd millennium BC.

In the context of being used as an art form, glass reached the height of popularity during the Middle Ages, when the builders of the cathedrals of Europe began creating stained glass windows as a major decorative element in their architecture.

The 19th century saw factory glass blowers replaced by mechanical bottle blowing and birthed some of the great modern designers such as Lalique, Tiffany and Whitefriars which are still hugely popular in the world of antiques today.

Here are some of the most eye-catching pieces we have seen around Alfies...

Yellow and orange glass serving dishes, c1970s. Available from W & L Antiques

A cranberry crackle glass, c1890s. Available from W & L Antiques

Midnight blue and turquoise glass perfume bottle, c1980s. Available from Hayman & Hayman

An orange glass splash vase, c1950s. Available from Beth

A Davidson Pearline yellow glass sweet dish, 1915. Available from Beth

A French peach splash glass bowl, c1950s. Available from Horner Antiques

A Czech aquamarine glass vase, c1960s. Available from Robinson Antiques

An amber glass perfume bottle, c1940s. Available from Hayman & Hayman

A Whitefriars ruby glass vase, c1965. Available from Robinson Antiques


A Val St. Lambert lime green glass vase, c1950s. Available from Louise Verber Antiques

A Murano crackle glass cased vase, c1960s. Available from Robinson Antiques

New Dealer: Planet Bazaar

noreply@blogger.com (Alfies Antique Market) — Fri, 11 May 2018 14:56:00 +0000

A view of the Planet Bazaar stand

We welcome new dealer, Maureen of Planet Bazaar to Alfies. Maureen has provided a sourcing service for unique 20th Century pieces for the home for the past 20 years.

A view of the Planet Bazaar stand

We asked Maureen a few questions to find out more...

How did Planet Bazaar begin?
From my desire for collecting vintage pieces.

How would you describe your stock?
Passionate, colourful and eclectic.

A view of the Planet Bazaar stand

What is the most highly sought after item you have in at the moment?
The eyeball floor lamp.

The eyeball lamp

Which designer do you admire, and why?
Ettore Sottsass - because his work speaks to me.

Ettore Sottsass

What piece would you love to find?
I know it when I see it. I don't set out to find a piece. It's what gazes back at me from an object or work of art - the like of collecting.

If you could own any piece of art from history what would it be?
One of Francis Bacon's Screaming Popes.

Screaming Pope by Francis Bacon

Visit the Planet Bazaar stand located on the first floor at Alfies, F057/58.

May's Birthstone: Emerald

noreply@blogger.com (Alfies Antique Market) — Fri, 04 May 2018 13:30:00 +0000

May is the heart of Spring, making the Emerald a very fitting birthstone for the month with its colour matching the lush growth and landscapes of the season. Just as Spring is associated with renewal, in the eyes of the ancient Greeks and Romans, the emerald is a symbol of rebirth.

The Egyptians also valued emeralds, considering them to have protective powers, which led to them using the gem in jewellery and burial ceremonies. Cleopatra is possibly the most famous character in history with a fondness for the emerald, using them heavily in her personal adornment and even taking ownership of all the emerald mines in Egypt during her reign.

Some of the oldest emeralds are estimated to be 2.97 billion years old and are still among the most valuable gemstones to own today.

In honour of the dazzling jewel, here is a selection of our favourites from Alfies:

Emerald and diamond baguette ring, 1980s. Available from Kieron Reilly

French Art Deco emerald and diamond filigree earrings, 1920s. Available from Pari's Jewellery

French Art Deco diamond and emerald platinum ring, 1920s. Available from Kieron Reilly

A diamond and emerald bow brooch, 1940s. Available from Zeeba Jewels

A Columbian emerald and diamond gold ring, custom made, 1970s. Available from Pari's Jewellery

Diamond and emerald drop earrings, 1970s. Available from Kieron Reilly

Last chance: ABBA | Super Troupers

noreply@blogger.com (Alfies Antique Market) — Thu, 26 Apr 2018 14:44:00 +0000

ABBA: Super Troupers at Southbank Centre (until 29 April), charts the rise and legacy of the iconic Swedish pop group, whose upbeat music offered much needed escape and optimism during the strikes and financial turmoil of 1970s Britain.

The exhibition, narrated by Jarvis Cocker, takes a close look at some of ABBA’s original costumes, personal photographs and sketches, handwritten notes, album artworks and musical instruments.

ABBA were well known for their garish stage outfits, however they were not just influenced by the sequined needs of being a dancing queen; it recently came to light that the design of their clothes was also a form of tax evasion.

According to a new book by Björn Ulvaeus, "the band's style was influenced in part by laws that allowed the cost of outfits to be deducted against tax - so long as the costumes were so outrageous they could not possibly be worn on the street."

ABBA: Bright colours, prints and metallics

ABBA: Sequins

ABBA: Black glam

At Alfies we discovered lots of eye-catching pieces that would not look out of place on Agnetha & Anni-Frid at an ABBA concert...

Metallic silver platforms, available from Tin Tin Collectables

Silver crochest dress, available from Tin Tin Collectables

Celia Birtwell for Ossie Clark blouse, available from Tin Tin Collectables

Star and Moon vintage clip-on earrings, available from Gloria Sinclair

Jean Muir metallic gold jacket, paired with a gold crochet camisole, available from June Victor

1970s designer red dress, available from June Victor

Sequin Moschino blazer, available from June Victor

Embellished corset, available from June Victor

Abba: Super Troupers at the Southbank Centre, London SE1, will until 29 April 2018.

The Queen's Birthday

noreply@blogger.com (Alfies Antique Market) — Thu, 19 Apr 2018 01:30:00 +0000

Happy birthday to Queen Elizabeth II who will turn 92 on April 21st! Whilst this is her date of birth, the Queen's official birthday takes place in June. All British sovereign are given the option of choosing an 'official' birthday to celebrate. This tradition dates back to 1748 when King George II decided to celebrate his birthday twice - once on his date of birth in November and again in the Summer, having decided that Autumn wouldn't be an ideal time for public celebration because of the weather.

On her birthday in April, the Queen will celebrate privately but the occasion will be marked by gun salutes in London at midday - a 41 gun salute in Hyde Park, a 21 gun salute in Windsor Great Park and a 62 gun salute at the Tower of London. For her official birthday in June, a parade will take place in central London.

Here are a few fun facts about a hugely interesting figure in British history, Queen Elizabeth II -

She is the only person in the UK who is allowed to drive without a licence
She is the longest reigning monarch ever in Britain, beating Queen Victoria
The Queen first sent an email in 1976
She has seen 12 Prime Ministers come to power
Her favourite dog breed is the Corgi
She is a trained mechanic after having joined the Women's Auxiliary Territorial Service during World War II
She has sent around 50,000 Christmas cards to date, and counting..

In celebration of Her Royal Majesty, we took a look around Alfies for a few objects dedicated to her:

A Royal Worcester 'Queen's 8th Birthday' figurine. Available from W & L Antiques

A selection of memorabilia mugs, c1950s. Available from W & L Antiques

A Silver Jubilee swim costume by Speedo, 1977. Available from Tin Tin Collectables

A selection of memorabilia mugs, c1950s. Available from W & L Antiques

A set of tea forks with the royal insignia, 1937. Available from Goldsmith & Perris

A Silver Jubilee stationary set, 1977. Available from W & L Antiques

A Silver Jubilee scrapbook, 1977. Available from W & L Antiques

Antiques for Animals!

noreply@blogger.com (Alfies Antique Market) — Fri, 13 Apr 2018 10:07:00 +0000

It's National Pet Month, 1 April - 7 May 2018, which gives us a wonderful excuse to share our favourite animal themed items at Alfies! National Pet Month raises awareness of responsible pet ownership through educational campaigns, it also celebrates the benefits of our pets and encourages fundraising for the nation’s needy pets. It's a great thing to get involved with!

If you are a fan of both vintage jewellery, and our furry friends, you'll love these top animal picks currently in-store at Alfies:

Art Deco brooch, available from Gloria Sinclair

Butler & Wilson diamanté dog and bone brooch, available from Gloria Sinclair

Vintage cat and dog figurines, available from Gloria Sinclair

Limoges rabbit trinket box, offered by Hayman & Hayman

1960s cat brooch, set on 18ct gold, available from Zeeba Jewels

1960s dog brooch, set on 18ct gold, available from Zeeba Jewels

1950s Cat on shells "Personal Ashtray", available from Dream Retro

Diamonds are Forever

noreply@blogger.com (Alfies Antique Market) — Thu, 05 Apr 2018 13:30:00 +0000

The birthstone for April is the show stopping diamond, said to be a girl's best friend, we have plenty on display around Alfies.

Almost every civilisation has had some form of lore surrounding diamonds. In Ancient Greece warriors wore diamonds because the stones were thought to strengthen the muscles and bring invincibility. They have also been considered the adornment of winners and were worn as a talisman by many leaders including Julius Caesar, Louis IV and Napoleon.

Throughout history the diamond has also represented eternal love, possibly symbolic of one of the diamond's key features - strength. Diamonds have the hardest structure of any gemstone, are believed to be the hardest substance known to man and can only be cut with another diamond. For all of these reasons, the diamond has become the traditional gem used for engagement rings. However we believe that diamonds look good on everyone!

A 1960s platinum and diamond leaf brooch. Available from Kieron Reilly

An onyx and diamond ring, c1930s. Available from Kieron Reilly

A Victorian silver and diamond brooch. Available from Pars Jewellery

An onyx and diamond ring, c1930s. Available from Kieron Reilly

A pair of Art Deco diamond earrings. Available from Kieron Reilly

An Edwardian platinum and diamond brooch. Available from Pars Jewellery

Spring has Sprung

noreply@blogger.com (Alfies Antique Market) — Thu, 22 Mar 2018 14:30:00 +0000

This week Spring has officially begun. With the arrival of March 21st, so too comes the arrival of the period that marks the start of seasonal rebirth. Following Winter - which symbolises death - Spring is viewed as the resurrection and represents rejuvenation and renewal. These symbolic representations are long standing and can be seen throughout culture in poetry, literature, theatre and art. Common depictions of this season are flowers, baby animals, and vibrant shades of yellow and green.

With this in mind we took a look around Alfies to find some Spring like representations of our own..


An Oriental decorated vase. Available from Hongman Yang

A floral watercolour, 1934. Available from Moe Heidarieh

A Carlton Ware buttercup sugar shaker, c1930s. Available from Beth

Flowers in vase, oil on canvas, c1930s. Available from i Fine & Contemporary Art

A Chinese 'Famille Noire' brush pot, late Qing period, c1900. Available from Horner Antiques

An Edwardian glass and enamel trinket pot. Available from Beth

A Chinese dinner plate with painted design, Qianlong, 18th Century. Available from Diplomat Treasures International

A floral print, c1870s. Available from Moe Heidarieh

Symbols of Ireland

noreply@blogger.com (Alfies Antique Market) — Thu, 15 Mar 2018 17:16:00 +0000

Ireland has a very rich heritage along with old traditions and symbols. With St Patrick's Day fast approaching, we look into the meanings behind the symbols of Ireland.

Shamrock
Saint Patrick, Ireland's patron saint, is said to have used it as a metaphor for the Christian Holy Trinity. According to legend, the shamrock was a sacred plant to the Druids of Ireland because its leaves formed a triad, and three was a mystical number in the Celtic religion, as it is in many others.

Vintage shamrock charm, available from Good Time Antiques

Entrée dish with shamrock design lid, Birmingham 1910, available from Goldsmith & Perris

Spurrier & Co napkin Ring, Birmingham 1906, available from Goldsmith & Perris

Harp
The Irish harp was featured on the Coat of Arms because King James was not only the ruler of England but of Ireland as well. The harp has also been synonymous with Guinness since 1862, when it was used as a symbol on the first bottle label for Guinness. It is because of the harp trademark that Guinness named its first lager 'Harp' in 1960.

Harp charm, available from Good Time Antiques

Green
Green is the national colour of Ireland, which is known as “The Emerald Isle”. On St Patrick's Day, it is customary to wear shamrocks, green clothing or green accessories. St. Patrick's revelers thought wearing green made one invisible to leprechauns, who would pinch anyone not wearing green!

"Genie bottle" by Empoli c1960s, available from Robinson Antiques

1950s evening bag with matching headband, available from June Victor

The London St Patrick's Day Festival 2018, a three-day cultural and community festival across London will kick off today, Friday 16. More details here.

Celebrating Women

noreply@blogger.com (Alfies Antique Market) — Thu, 08 Mar 2018 14:30:00 +0000

Mother's Day is coming up soon, falling on Sunday 11th March, and is the perfect time to show your Mum the love she deserves. Today also happens to be International Women's Day, so it really is a great time to be coming together and supporting each other as females - if you're looking for an event where you can experience this kind of atmosphere then the WOW (Women of the World) festival is currently running at the Southbank Centre until Sunday.

With all of this going on, it's worth celebrating the women in your life - what better way to do so than with a gift? Here's our pick of the bunch from Alfies:

A floral painting, oil on canvas, mid 20th Century. Available from i Fine & Contemporary Art

A pair of paste and enamel earrings, 1980s. Available from April Antiques

An Italian ceramic coffee pot and sugar bowl, 20th century. Available from The Originals

A silver baby pram charm, 1960s. Available from Good Time Antiques

A Victorian emerald, diamond and pearl brooch, English, c1890. Available from Kieron Reilly

A selection of Victorian cranberry and vaseline glass vases. Available from Beth

A vintage tulip brooch, 1950s. Available from April Antiques

A floral painting, oil on canvas, mid 20th Century. Available from i Fine & Contemporary Art

Ocean Liners: Speed and Style

noreply@blogger.com (Alfies Antique Market) — Thu, 01 Mar 2018 11:20:00 +0000

From the mid-19th century to the late 20th century, the ocean liner revolutionised sea travel. Ocean Liners: Speed and Style at the V&A, explores the design and cultural impact of the passenger liner around the world, delving into the hidden design stories of some of the world's most resplendent liners, including the Titanic, Normandie, the Queen Mary and the Canberra.

This exhibition revives the golden age of ocean travel, from ground-breaking engineering and fashionable interiors, to the lifestyle on board and their cultural impact on art, architecture, design and film. With over 250 objects including paintings, sculpture, ship models, fashion, photographs and posters. The exhibition will also feature works by Modernist artists, designers and architects inspired by liners.

Image taken from the V&A website

Image taken from Riba Journal

Image taken from the V&A website

Taking inspiraton from this exhibition we discovered lots of luxurious items at Alfies that wouldn't look out of place on an ocean liner, reminiscent of the golden age of splendour.

Furniture and home accessories at Alfies

Cunard To Canada poster 1930s, available from Dodo Posters

Art Deco flame grained rosewood club chairs, available from The Moderns

Art Deco walnut table, available from Travers Antiques

Decorative blue vase, available from Diplomat Treasures International

A selection of vintage suitcases and Louis Vuitton trunks, available from Tin Tin Collectables Luggage

Fashion

Those who went on ocean voyages filled their Louis Vuitton steamer trunks with finery. The decks resembled a red carpet of the latest fashions, with the rich and famous donning apparel by the world's greatest designers.

Vintage tiara, available from Zeeba Jewels

1920s dress, available from June Victor

1930s beaded dress, available from Tin Tin Collectables

1920s Bathing suit "WESTOE LADIES - ASC - SOUTH SHIELDS", available from Tin Tin Collectables

1920s bathing suit with belt loops, available from Tin Tin Collectables

R.M.S. Queen Mary dining scene, Jacqmar London silk scarf, available from Tin Tin Colllectables

Ocean Liners: Speed & Style will run until 17 June, 2018 at the V&A

Purple Passion

noreply@blogger.com (Alfies Antique Market) — Thu, 22 Feb 2018 14:07:00 +0000

Purple has officially made a comeback! Pantone have named Ultraviolet, a vibrant shade of purple, colour of the year. You may have recently noticed this colour splashed across furnishings, interiors and fashion. Which makes February's birthstone - amethyst - even more prominent this year.

Historically, there has been a mystical or spiritual quality attached to purple. The colour is often associated with the practice of mindfulness and amethyst itself is said to bring calmness, clarity and also boost intuition. It's even claimed that the purple quartz helps combat the effects of drunkenness!

At Alfies there's no shortage of amethyst jewellery, and we also have other items in this year's must-have shade! Here are some of our favourite picks:

Silver & gold Amethyst brooch/pendant with pearls and diamonds, c1900. Available from Zeeba Jewels

Bug brooch set with diamond, ruby, garnet, amethyst and cat's eye. Circa 1900. Available from Naneen Brooks

Amethyst, emerald and diamond floral necklace in 15ct gold. Available from Pari's Jewellery

c1970s Art Glass. Available from Diplomat Treasures International

Val St Lambert lamp base, c1950s. Available from Louise Verber Antiques

Stratton compact, c1950, deadstock. Available from Dream Retro

LFW Kicks Off: London Fashion Week A/W18

noreply@blogger.com (Alfies Antique Market) — Fri, 16 Feb 2018 13:30:00 +0000

For all you FROW wannabees, today's the day you've been waiting for! London Fashion Week AW18 kicks off officially today. This season, London's young and emerging designers are holding the torch for the event, while some of the bigger names - such as Armani and Tommy Hilfiger - are forgoing their usual shows. On the emerging designer line-up are AV Robertson, Dilara Findikoglu and Richard Quinn.

Here at Alfies, we're here to show you how you can go green and wear vintage and still channel the latest styles. Here's the lowdown on the key trends of the week, and some fabulous pieces from Alfies:

Embellished Clutch Bags

Antique beaded evening bag with pearl snap closure Available from Connie Speight

Bakelite clutch bag with inlaid shell butterfly feature. Available from Sheila Cameron

Sequin bow clutch, c1980s. Available from Gloria Sinclair

Ultraviolet

Austrian wool jacket, c1960s. Available from June Victor

Silver gild and enameled leaf shaped necklace. Available from Gareth Brooks

Bold Colour & Print

A selection of 1940s glazed pottery star sign brooches, made in Valleuris and signed Sisca. Available from Tony Durante

Haori meisen silk kimono, Japan, c1930s. Available from Barbara Rich Textiles

1950s French Tapestry Le Reveille Matin by Marc Saint Saens. Available from The Moderns

From the rest..

Don't forget to visit Tin Tin Collectables and Dream Retro, for their fantastic collections of vintage fashion, costume and accessories.

1980s gold coloured large clip-on earrings. Available from Dream Retro

Tassled Shawl. Available from Tin Tin Collectables