Back then the trade was reeling.
Just a few months later the outlook is much brighter. Summer is here and so is a series of wonderful events for art and antiques lovers.
The Treasure House Fair has replaced Masterpiece in the same venue; London Art Week boasts an impressive roster of selling exhibitions; Edinburgh is readying itself for a busy season; dealers are ready to welcome you to their galleries; antiques fairs big and small are taking place up and down the country; and auction houses are hosting hundreds of sales.
No matter what the challenge, the art and antiques trade always finds a way.
All that remains is for you to get out there: view, enjoy and buy.
Wherever you go we wish you a warm and successful summer of art and antiques.
PS
Once summer’s over, keep your diary open: the autumn season is set to be just as compelling. Major art and antiques fairs will woo visitors in later September and early October, followed closely by the Asian Art in London festival and a bustling series of auctions in November.
