LONDON'S GREAT ART AND ANTIQUES SHOW

The splendid Berkeley Square art and antiques fair took place at the end of September 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 a social occasion as much as 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 staged a charity evening on the Thursday of the event, with what they described as a star-studded cast of entertainers, a view of the exhibition, and a private dinner. This no doubt contributed to the fact that the opening evening was not the grand bash that it has been, and decidedly less crowded. And competition comes from the Masterpiece event launched last year, with impressive venue in the Chelsea Hospital grounds, well attended again this year.

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

Both are well 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. They attract many visitors from overseas, and are part of the mix that makes London such an international cultural centre.

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 Berkeley Square fair is the prestigious LAPADA body, the society for professional art and antiques dealers in the UK. It maintains a scrict Code of Practice, which gives security for anyone purchasing from a LAPADA member. www.lapadalondon.com