What's been lost in Bristol's antiques market?

One of the great pleasures of my early adult life was exploring quality antique shops around Clifton and in some of the market towns in the West Country. A trip to Wells was a particular joy, with a splendid shop in the market square near the cathedral. A friend of mine had a magnificent collection of period furniture, available to view on the ground floor of an imposing Georgian house in Bradford-on-Avon. Tetbury was also a favourite to visit. These were not just shopping trips but outings of excitement and inspiration. 

There are, of course, some specialist outlets still to be found in Clifton, and several quasi-antique/junk shops in various locations. But generally speaking, Bristol is suffering from a dearth of fine antiques.

Bristolians haven't lost interest in antiques, but high business rates and other costs of running a retail unit, together with changing shopping habits, have led to the demise of some of our traditional high streets. In addition, city developments, and current fashion favour minimalism. Looking back on my early days of antique hunting, these were indeed golden days of leisurely mornings, having coffee and wandering through Clifton, browsing antiques. 

I remember a particular dealer who, although he knew I could only afford modest items, talked in great detail about the more prestigious pieces, and I learnt a great deal. The same generosity of shared knowledge seemed to apply to most antique dealers of this period. Although I won't be operating from a retail unit, I hope to spend time with buyers discussing items of mutual interest, sharing knowledge as those dealers once did with me.

Quality furniture and objects d'art look great in both modern and period properties. Why not furnish your home with practical and beautiful items which you can enjoy and which may become an inheritance for your family? Interesting, historic and valuable items are a pleasure to find, a joy to sell and should be shared with others. I'm bringing quality antiques back to Bristol, one piece at a time. If you're interested in furnishing your home with objects that have history and character, please get in touch.