ANTIQUE ART COLLECTORS, REJOICE! THESE ARE THE BEST PLACES TO SATIATE YOUR DESIRE FOR ANTIQUES

Old is gold! And your search for that perfect treasure can take you to those hidden shops or even to a far-flung destination that you 'thought' you knew. The desire to own the newest pieces for your home has given way to a need to fill your living space with unique pieces that have a story to tell – the treasurous and the antiques. The antique decor is undoubtedly rare and perhaps, that’s why it’s not easy to source. To make your search for antiques easy, we have found four of the finest and visually charming antique destinations for you to shop a story for your abode. The experiences will lead you to fall in love with some rare pieces you might have never even seen before, we promise!

Shop through Madrilenian’s lane

In Madrid’s largest and oldest antique market you can grab a hatful of antiques, treasures, collectables, handmade items, and so much more. If you are looking for unique discoveries for your home, this place is for you. Once, you get in the lanes, you’ll be carried along by the crowds and with each turn, you’ll find new surprises at every nook of this art treasure of Spain. You can pop in at La Recova to find rare and beautiful vintage pieces of tables, plant racks, and bar cabinets along with other beauties. Also, sitting beside the lane is a huge warehouse packed with gems! Another must-visit is Barataría which is extremely eclectic in terms of products, timeless finds in decor and furniture from any age, era, and or style – from colonial and pop-art to exotic and Nordic. Don’t forget to buy their speciality, which is a stunning vintage mirror cased in Murano glass.

Photo credits: One King Lane

Photo credits: One King Lane

Antique Bonheur Paris

It’s almost like a small city in itself! Open on every Saturday, Sunday, and Monday, you can find almost anything such as funky art, vintage items, furniture, antiques, and fine-china collectables. At Porte de Clingnancourt each booth has its own unique set of items to sell. You might get lost wandering around the enormous alleys, but the streets brim throughout with so many vintage treasures and antiques that you’ll be wanting to stay there the entire day when you travel to Paris. Old renaissance aged paintings are a rarity to be found here, make sure you pick one (or two!)

Photo credits: Shutterstock

Photo credits: Shutterstock

Over Istanbul’s side

With so much history attached to its name, Istanbul doesn’t fall behind when it comes to antiques' hunting. From Ottoman pieces to the more capricious leftovers from yesteryears, you can find the top-notch antique pieces in almost every corner of the city. Starting with Feriköy Flea Market, it is the favourite destination for antique seekers with almost everything imaginable displayed at various stalls. For more high-quality antique takeaways, you should head towards Aslı Günşiray – as suggested in the name, Ms. Günşiray has spent decades accumulating the collection of a lifetime. Her souvenirs include objects from the Ottoman era and Anatolian art as well as antique furniture, liquor bottles, coffee sets, and vases from the Far East, French, and Turkish regions.

Photo credits: Houzz

Photo credits: Houzz

Walk Through the Ethnic Passage of Kochi

This quiet space tucked in Kochi houses a variety of souvenirs, jewelry, spices, brass artefacts, cotton garments, and leather products in a tastefully restored 200year-old Portuguese building. While you explore, be aware of the fact that the Ethnic Passage has been active since 1977, so be prepared to see sculptures, vintage objects, and furniture from all over the world, not just India. Christian artefacts from old churches, an assortment of small items such as antique spice boxes, wooden plates and spoons, copper scrapers, and salt boxes ; you will get an end-number of options to choose from. From Fine teak to rosewood furniture, the most featured piece of The Ethnic Passage collection is the Antique bronze mask which is registered with the Archaeological Survey of India. And if you wish to take some time off shopping, head to the lovely café or the bookstore located in the same building. 

Photo credits: Pinterest

Photo credits: Pinterest

Vintage and antique artefacts can actually imbue a space with so much character, depth, and narrative. Once you get in the habit of vintage shopping, you will realise that it's not just for shabby-chic lovers – it’s much more; IT’S ETERNAL LOVE!