TIPS TO ANTIQUING IN THE SOUTH OF FRANCE
With Valentina Cazzola
From village brocantes to large-scale antique markets, Valentina Cazzola knows how to find unexpected and inspiring antiques. Here, she shares her tips on developing your own eye, the art of gentle negotiation, and why it’s best to start with no plan. After all, sometimes the best finds are the ones you weren’t looking for.
Don’t have too much of a plan.
I never really go with a list, I think that takes away half the fun! I love wandering around and seeing what catches my eye. More often than not, I end up falling for something I would never have thought to look for.
Don’t overlook the little village brocantes.
I love a big market, but the little village brocantes are probably my favourite. They feel more intimate and you never quite know what you’ll find. Sometimes all it takes is one special piece to make the whole morning worthwhile.
Go early, but never rush.
I like going early, before it gets too hot or busy. I’ll bring a basket, some cash, water and a hat and just take my time. I love doing a first wander, stopping for a coffee and then going back for another look.
Look for character, not perfection.
I always fall for things with a little history, old linens, embroidery, ceramics, glassware, baskets, jewellery...I love beautiful colours, craftsmanship and a bit of patina. Perfect is rarely what catches my eye.
Imagine it at home and in your suitcase!
Whenever I find something I love, I immediately picture where it could live at home, and whether I can actually fit it in my suitcase! I tend to choose smaller pieces, linens and things that are easy to pack, and I’m extra careful with anything fragile. Although every now and then something is just too beautiful to be practical about!
Keep it friendly.
I’m definitely not a serious negotiator! I might gently ask if there’s a little room on the price, especially if I’m buying a few things, but I like to keep it friendly. The people you meet are part of the fun too.
Buy what you love and enjoy the day.
I never buy something just because it’s a bargain. If I walk away and I’m still thinking about it, I usually go back! And honestly, the best part is the whole day around it wandering through a village, coffee, lunch, flowers, people... the things you bring home end up carrying a little bit of that memory with them.