Brocantes, flea markets, and the art of antiquing in France

B is for Brocantes! This podcast episode features an interview with Sharon Santoni, a long-time expert on French lifestyle and author of the book "The Art of Antiquing in France."

She discusses the nuances of the "brocante", which she defines as accessible antiques that possess a unique history and patina.

The conversation explores the cultural importance of repurposing vintage items and provides practical advice for navigating famous markets like the Puces de Saint-Ouen in Paris and fairs in Provence.

Sharon shares her personal journey from starting a blog in 2010 to building a community centered on French country aesthetics. Additionally, she shares tips for international travelers on how to identify quality pieces, negotiate prices, and transport treasures home.

Key Links and Websites

Sharon Santoni's Official Website: www.myfrenchcountryhome.com

This is the primary hub for her blog (started in 2010), her My French Country Home magazine, and her boutique.

The Book: "The Art of Antiquing in France" – Published by Flammarion, this book serves as both a reference and a coffee table book and is fully illustrated with photographs by Sharon Santoni, Franck Schmitt, and Joanna Maclennan.

Books are available worldwide from your favorite local bookseller and signed editions can be purchased directly via her website on this link.
Antique Fair Locator: Sharon mentions the website, www.brocabrac.fr, which is a helpful resource for finding fairs happening across France on any given weekend

Places Mentioned

The episode covers several iconic and local spots for antiquing and living in France:

In Paris:
Les Puces de Saint-Ouen: Located on the northern perimeter of Paris, Sharon describes it as a unique place in the world with over 500 vendors and specialized knowledge in everything from paintings to textiles

Marché aux Puces de la Porte de Vanves: A weekend morning market Sharon and Oliver both enjoy for its "authentic vibe." It is known for its urgency, as dealers unpack from cars at 8:00 AM and pack up by 12:30 PM

Foire de Châtou: A large, prestigious 10-day antique fair held just outside of Paris

In Provence and Southern France:

L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue: This town is famous for its antique dealers and weekend markets.

Villeneuve-lès-Avignon: A "wonderful" fair mentioned by Sharon

Carpentras: Another "fantastic" fair located in the south

In Normandy and Northern France:

The Eure Valley (Val de l'Eure): Sharon lives in the Normandy countryside, roughly halfway between Paris and Deauville, near the famous village of Giverny

Amiens: A northern city (noted as the home of Emmanuel Macron) that hosts a spectacular fair where selling starts as early as midnight

Lille: Known for its massive fair, though Sharon notes it is so large it can be "scary" because it includes items beyond just antiques

Notable Details for Antiquing

Brocante vs. Antiques: Sharon defines brocante as "relaxed antiques", a mix of items with patina and repurposed pieces, whereas the "antique world" typically involves highly polished furniture and higher price points

The "Hand Rule": Sharon advises that if you are interested in an item, keep your hand on it; if you take your hand off and step away, someone else can jump in

Suitcase Treasures: For travelers, she suggests looking for paintings, vintage postcards, or palettes that can easily fit into a suitcase

One tip she shares from her travelers is to "ship home their dirty laundry" to make room for their antique treasures in their luggage.

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A reminder: For this new season, we're doing a new take on the A to Z of Paris. This time, B stands for Brocantes, following from A which stood for Arc de Triomphe.

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