LONDON'S GREAT ART AND ANTIQUES SHOW

The splendid Berkeley Square art and antiques fair takes place in September (25th – 29th). This is not only a favourite among international dealers, private collectors and enthusiasts but a highlight of the Mayfair social scene.

Its venue, an impressive marquee occupying the Berkeley Square garden, makes it a focal point for the wealthy denizens of the area to come out in their finery for the opening evening and to visit again in the following days to see what they might pick up.

And what they might pick up are some amazing treasures. From fine art, antiques, clocks, silver, jewellery, carpets, ceramics, and more, it is an Aladdin’s marquee of  items that have all been vetted by a 50-strong committee of experts to check their authenticity. Prices ranging from as little as £500 up to £500,000 and beyond.

Shown above a tantalus from Tiffany. Keeping the master's spirits under lock and key was one way of ensuring the servants didn't take any sips - or the family. Left, delightful gilt bronze and ivory figure, the Chant de la Fileuse by Maurice Favre, c 1920, from William Hickmet.

The fair is also staging a charity evening on the Thursday of the event, with what they say will be a star-studded cast of entertainers, a view of the exhibition, and a private dinner. An 'elaborate Private Dinner' is promised, which should indeed be elaborate at £500 a ticket for the party and dinner. Minus the dinner but for the party and view of the fair the evening tickets are £75. For the rest of the exhibition, entrance is £15.

Above, an immaculate cloud suit chair from Mieka Sywak, who is now Fair Director of LAPADA.

Now in its 5th year, it is worth visiting just to be surrounded by the beautiful objects of the past, a testament to craftsmanship and talent that should inspire today’s young artists and craftsmen and women. It attracts many visitors from overseas, and despite economic problems, is expected to see the usual crowds this year - perhaps exceeding last year's total of 17,000 visitors over the five days.

Above, the small dog in this painting, entitled The Boss, seems to have decided that discretion is the better part of valour in tackling these sheep. From Lucy B Campbell.

Left, fine example of marquetry in this centre table from Butchoff. Above, 'Hunting' cased wristwatch from Anthony Green.

Below left, fabulous vase from AD Antiques; silver bulldog from Langfords; and a special relationship snail by Boucheron, a yellow gold and enamel brooch.

Responsible for staging the event is the prestigious LAPADA body (The Association of Art and Antique Dealers), the society for professional art andantiques dealers in the UK. It maintains a scrict Code of Practice, which gives security for anyone purchasing from a LAPADA member. For ticket details go to www.lapadalondon.com