Irwin Weiner ASID - I was a happy camper when I bought antiques, primarily British silver, for my mother's antique shop in Cape Town. I've since gone into my own interior design practice and have shopped in London with clients for antiques and fine furnishings.
One thing is certain about UK antiques shopping - if you see that a dealer is a member of LAPADA, The Association of Art and Antique Dealers, you can feel confident that they abide by a great code of conduct and have gained admission to the "club" based on the outstanding quality of their goods. Look for the chandelier logo in a dealer's window for proof of membership, and visit the LAPADA website for information on UK exhibits, an art and antiques finder, and tips on buying and collecting antiques. With over 600 members, including 50 members in 16 non-UK countries, you're sure to find something unique. Don't miss their upcoming Art and Antiques Fair in Berkeley Square, Mayfair, London - September 21-25, 2011, and enjoy this video showing you the excellent quality and diversity of items in one of LAPADA's earlier shows, from Pocket London TV (a very helpful online guide to all-things London). And congratulations to The King's Speech for its well-deserved Academy Awards recognition.
