Setup on Tuesday

I’m writing this blog post while sitting in my booth at the AVENUE Antiques at the Armory preview party. I haven’t had much time recently to write a Thursday blog, but I do now.

24 hours later

It’s interesting to compare the preview parties of different antique shows in different cities. The biggest similarity is that most of the attendees are not interested in purchasing antiques. They are there for the event — to see and be seen. It’s a nice social event where you get free food and liquor. Many times they benefit a charity. The part I haven’t figured out is how they benefit the exhibitors. Occasionally I will make a sale at a preview party, but it’s the exception, not the rule.

Barbra Streisand in my booth

Attendance at this party was outstanding. I haven’t seen so many well-to-do, well-dressed people in one place at the same time, in a long time. I didn’t recognize most of the people, but you could tell that many were wealthy and/or powerful. Barbra Streisand was here, but she didn’t purchase anything. I wish the attendees were more of a buying crowd, but unfortunately total sales for the party were $325.

Part of the tremendous crowd

For exhibitors, this is a very expensive show. I will have to sell quite a bit just to cover my costs. I have no idea how it will go, but I have my fingers crossed. If I do well, I’ll try it again. If not, goodbye to the AVENUE show. I’ll let you know the results on Monday.

The best Daum scenic blownout vase

Check my website daily this week. I’ll be photographing all my new Gallé and Daum purchases and listing them on my website. Recently I listed quite a few Tiffany, Handel and Pairpoint lamps and some very rare Louis Icart etchings including Melody Hour and Mardi Gras. There are also several fine Daum vases; a Daum lamp; several Galle vases; and several more Tiffany Favrile vases. Coming soon will be several wonderful European ceramic items by Clement Massier, Zsolnay and Amphora. Here’s the link. chasenantiques.com