Gold pendant, found in a 1920s sewing chest from a Paris atelier. Photo © Tara Bradford from the photographic series Trésor parfait.
If you're in Paris later this month, you'll have the chance to find your own perfect treasure. My favourite brocante at Chatou begins March 15th and continues daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. through March 24th.
The 86th Foire Nationale aux Antiquites a la Brocante et Produits du Terroir (affectionately known as "the Brocante and Ham Fair") is a popular showcase for more than 800 vendors offering many of France's much-admired antique and vintage furniture, housewares, art and decorative items and curiosities. You'll also find delicious hams and other treats to take home.
Be sure and visit my friend Blandine Bavoux's Jolie Trouvaille stand at 8 rue de la Gaite. She has fantastic enamel coffeepots, tiffins and other vintage delights to add charm and character to your home. My own kitchen has quite a few of Blandine's cherished collectibles.
Tickets for Chatou are available at the gate. From Charles de Gaulle Etoile metro, take the RER A1 train (direction Saint-Germain-en-Laye) to Rueil-Malmaison or Chatou-Croissy. For the latter, follow the signs at the exit and walk across the bridge to Ile de Chatou. Or, if you exit the station at Rueil-Malmaison, a petit train will take you by land to the main entrance at Pont de Chatou.
Hoppy hunting! If you're traveling and can't attend this event, you'll have another opportunity this fall. The 87th Brocante and Ham Fair is scheduled September 27th through October 6th.
Ahhh, fond memories! Lovely trinket found in the photo too.
Posted by: Marilyn | 14 March 2013 at 04:05
First of all, I have to say I LOVE the idea of the brocante and ham! No one will go hungry (and I bet it's good ham!). Your photo is beautiful and it makes me wish I was close at hand. This would be quite my cup of tea!
Posted by: jeanie | 11 March 2013 at 02:14