LIFT THE SPIRIT
 
The Antiques and Art Fair at Maastricht has become the biggest and the best fair in the world, and last week we were there.  It is amazing to go somewhere where you can see museum standard pieces that you could actually buy.  The fair includes all disciplines from Ancient Roman and Greek sculpture to radical contemporary art and video installations.
 
Some of my favourite pieces are illustrated on the recommendations page, and they include several pieces of classical sculpture, and some impressionist pictures.  I think my personal favourite is the Picasso blue period sketch- amazing that such a thing can still be bought on the open market.

As usual though a fair like this emphasises the relative cheapness of my own speciality- furniture.  The Bullock desk, and Hope arm chair for example are both about as good as it gets in terms of English furniture.  Both designed by famous designers at the peak of their careers, and with known provenance, and yet only priced in thousands, not millions!
 
If you have not been to the Maastricht fair I would strongly suggest an outing next year- it is truly a great spectacle and an inspiration.  It is a bit of a trek to get there but so worth the effort.
 
As I write this the financial news seems to be getting worse and worse, with Bear Stearns being sold over  the weekend for a minute fraction of its previous value, but the atmosphere at the fair was buoyant, with most dealers reporting strong sales, and crowds of buyers queuing to get in at opening time.  It seems that art is perhaps seen in the same light as gold- a safe haven in times of financial chaos.  Of course the other thing it does is lift the spirit.  Looking at a beautiful object just does make you feel better.  Contemplating buying it is really exciting; owning it a real treat.

Best wishes,

Tim, Daniel, Martyn and Tania