The Spring staging of the twice-yearly fair has a deserved reputation for decent stock offered at very reasonable prices in a friendly atmosphere, a winning formula which wisely has not been tampered with by relatively new owners Robert and Carol Pugh of Carmarthen-based Towy Antiques Fairs.
Times may be tough, but if any fair is going to drum up some enthusiasm and business it is likely to be Little Chelsea. Robert Pugh said last week: “Last autumn we bucked the trend with a successful fair. This is a unique event with a loyal following, and we are looking forward to this fair with as much enthusiasm as ever.”
For over 20 years Little Chelsea has been one of the trade’s best known secret haunts and there is not a great turnover of its 60 or so exhibitors. But two make their debut this month, Hall Bakker Antiques from Oxfordshire with Arts and Crafts and Art Nouveau, and Mark Newsum, the Gloucestershire specialist in oak and country items.
Renowned for smaller, decorative items there are always some larger pieces of furniture on offer, such as the 18th century Maltese serpentine front commode for which Belgravia’s Elizabeth Street Antiques will ask around £14,000. All items are vetted.
The fair opens on the Monday evening from 4pm to 8pm and on both days the trade are admitted free on presentation of a card, otherwise £3.
Chelsea scores again
ONE of the trade’s long-time favourite events, The Little Chelsea Antiques Fair, will be held at Chelsea Old Town Hall in the King’s Road, London SW3 on April 14 and 15.
