My passion, after my family of course, is Treasure Hunting. The simple beauty of things from by-gone eras have always spoken to me. Whether these treasures are found at a flea market, fine antique store, estate sale, thrift shop, or in the family attic, surprises abound.
As an interior designer, I believe it is vital to balance your decor by including found and family treasures. Surrounding yourself with things you love should always be the goal, from there you will find your true style.
As I shop, I may have a client in mind or I may want to resell at our french flea market or in my shop. I am lucky to have several outlets for my treasures including my own home! I plan to share my searching, hunting, travels, and treasures with you and encourage you to enjoy adding your treasures to your home.

Saturday, September 15, 2012

Paris & Flea Market Treasures

There is a French flag waving ever-so gently in the breeze. The traffic is passing at a little slower pace this evening, as it is Saturday. The sidewalk cafes are nearly full. The trees are just starting to show a touch of fall color. The warm day is turning cool as the sun begins to conclude it's days work. There is a French military band playing just up the way and from here their music is soft and charming. There is a young couple sitting on a bench gazing sweetly into each others eyes, young lovers so in love. 
This is Paris in the early fall. I am writing this evening from my hotel balcony overlooking this tiny piece of Paris... tonight it is my piece of Paris. I want to take it all in, not take one moment for granted. I want to enjoy the magical place that is Paris.
Today's was a very productive day. We started just as the sun rose, off to the annual Rue Cler Brocante street faire. It was an interesting sale of everything from very fine antiques to mid-century furniture and everything in between. 
We shopped in phases today as we wanted to get another batch of shipping boxes out before the post closed at 1:00pm. So we shopped, had our espresso and croissant then shopped some more before we rushed back to pack. With our shipping complete we went back to the brocante faire and continued our treasure hunting. 
Relegated to what will fit into our large extra suitcase our shopping now had a twist... small and flat.
Don't get me wrong, it wasn't hard to do. There was so much to choose from.
I did find myself shopping like I was at home but reality would rear it's ugly head 
and scream to me... small and flat!
We spent most of the day wandering through the streets, having wonderful conversations with vendors and shoppers alike. Everyone was kind and helpful and happy.
I took two very quick loot shoot photos to show you some of today's treasures. 
The antique enamel clock face from Honfleur is one of my favorites. The two brass pieces are trench art dating from the WWII era. They are shell casings that have been hand chased with oak leaves and acorns... beautiful and truly unique. The ring on the side of the chair is an English silver hotel ice bucket holder and the Limoges plates feature different hunt scenes on them. I know these photos make it difficult to see the details as the sun was very bright. 
I promise to take more photos once I get home.
From the small and flat collection... the amazing linen bunting from the garden tent of a chateau in Brittany. French children's school work books from the 1930's. Antique French postcards and photo albums. A pastoral print, children's books and other fun treasures. I am sorry my photo is not the best as I am taking all my pictures with my iphone (my big camera will not take a charge any longer... it has been over-worked this trip). More treasure hunting tomorrow.
I hope you enjoy and happy treasure hunting!

4 comments:

  1. Small and Flat?? We never got that memo, lol!
    We flew back home Friday afternoon:( We enjoyed our time in Paris. I love seeing your loot from Paris too! I could have shopped for days and days....its just as well it was time for us to leave!
    Hope we cross paths again down at Remnants and share a few more laughs. Until then, happy hunting and have a safe trip back!
    Tom and Sarah Malone

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  2. Hi Sarah, so glad you had a wonderful time in Paris too. Still here shopping & having fun! We would love to get together very soon. We'll keep in touch!

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  3. Hi Jennifer, So many pretty things! I'm happy for you that you take time to yourselves. Thanks for sharing your pictures with us. Blessings Paula Lusk

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  4. Another wonderful day to end your trip. There is nothing like sitting on a balcony overlooking a French streetscene, watching people come and go to the cafe on the corner. Thanks for sharing for trip, Jen.

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Thank you for leaving a comment. I love to hear from fellow bloggers. Let me know what you think about my treasures or share a treasure of your own. Happy hunting!