This is eclecticism at its finest! The above is a mix of Imari Japanese porcelain (from the 17th and 18th century) and European19th century vessels. These pieces and much more on exhibit at Cafe Papparayray (Fukuoka, Japan) and sourced by Cocteau Antiques & Atleir. Cocteau specializes in 19th century European ware. He (or she) goes to Paris and South of France a couple of times to find.
I wish I could be there in person to grab a bite and soak in the collection!
(Art Nouveau style viking peering from gold and wooden vessels)
Scouting Sunday finally arrived and we arose early to beat the LA traffic. The Santa Monica Airport Antique show was a smaller market with about 50 vendors. I somehow managed to spend a good 3.5 hours there learning and acquiring goods. Part of what I enjoy about going to weekend markets is the opportunity to soak up tons of information about jewelry and history by eccentric and gracious vendors. This seems to be a universal truth.
While in Santa Monica, I came across an Art Deco gem. I went back and forth about my decision for a good half an hour but ultimately went for it. This is an Art Deco silver pendant from the 1930s made in Germany. The black stone in the middle is Czech glass.
Next, we made our way to the weekly Melrose Trading Post in heart of LA. The crowd there was much younger and there was a larger mix of new and old pieces.
There was a young man selling rings from centuries ago data back to the Byzantine empire. I have to say that shopping under palm trees is a unique experience.
All in all, we had a nice break away from the Bay. Mel Scouts is back on the road again end of February- seeking goodies at the 100 acre fair in Canton, Texas. One trip down and three more to go!
Just came back from Los Angeles and thoroughly enjoyed a multitude of experiences: visited friends, scouted at two different markets, devoured amazing food and soaked in the slight change in scenery. Sweet success!
Day 1 Got in our little car and drove past the romantic green pastures seen from the I-5.
Picked up some famous cheese rolls at Porto's and felt paranoia creep in as we watched the chances of rain increase in the grey L.A. sky.
Stayed in San Gabriel Valley with our lovely friends - Viv and Ryan. We watched Viv and Ryan's 8 week old Boston Terrier - Ellie Ellington confront herself in the mirror. Had engaging business conversations with Viv owner of the amazing Etablir (vintage rentals in the L.A area). All I can say is -- let's go girl entrepreneurs.
Day 2 Stopped by and enjoyed some Taiwanese breakfast.(OMG: Have you ever had savory soy milk & rice burritos?). We dropped by Pasadena for a random garage sale at the church of truth. Found some treasures.
Took the drive to Yerba Linda to check out Nixon's library. Mister Nixon had a lot of drama during his presidency including: the landing of the first man on the moon, end to the Vietnam war, opened the doors to red china, and the watergate scandal which led to his voluntary resignation. On a side note - the small house he was born in was on premise. It is amazing that folks back in those times lived in such small spaces. Nixon's father made this little white house - apparently back then people made their homes via "house kits". I wonder if our old 1910 house came out of a box.
More details to follow -- stay tuned! Pictures of the scout to come!
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