A Belle Epoque Paris apartment was opened for the first time since WWII

My goal is to publish new posts twice a week — Mondays and Thursdays. However, if you don’t see a new post on Thursday, it’s because I was too busy, so please look for a new one the following Monday.


Madame de Florian’s vanity

Madame de Florian’s vanity

If you’ve ever wanted to go back in time, this story will bring you as close as you can get. A turn-of-the-century Paris apartment was opened for the first time in 2010, after the death of its owner. The apartment was completely untouched after being abandoned sometime between 1939 and 1942 (details are conflicting), to escape the invading Nazis. The owner, Madame de Florian, had paid rent on the apartment until her death in 2010. It was a time capsule of life during the Belle Epoque.

Giovanni Boldini painting of Madame de Florian’s mother Marthe de Florian

Giovanni Boldini painting of Madame de Florian’s mother Marthe de Florian

The most fabulous object discovered in the apartment was a painting of Madame de Florian’s mother, Marthe, painted by Giovanni Boldini, her lover. The painting was sold at auction for $3.4 million, helped by its provenance and juicy history.

There’s more to the amazing story, so click on the following three links for more details and photos. The Parisian Belle Epoque Time Capsule and This lavish apartment was discovered untouched for 70 years and Auctioneers Open Up A Paris Apartment Abandoned Since 1939 And Find Priceless Art


Click on this image to buy tickets

Click on this image to buy tickets

Our next show is not until April 15th, when we’ll be at the Chicago Botanic Garden, in Glencoe, IL, for the Garden, Antique & Design Show. It’s a beautiful show with both antiques and gardening, that you’ll absolutely enjoy. We only have two remaining shows in the greater Chicago area, so come and say hi!

If you’re selling, please let me know. If you have what I’m looking for, I’m paying the highest prices. My decisions are quick and my payments just as quick. Just snap a photo and email it to me.

I always strive to offer the finest objects for sale on my website and at every show. I will continue to list more as often as possible. Please click here to take a look.There are many items for sale, sold items with prices and free lessons about glass and lamps. And remember to keep reading my blog.