Louis XVI...The Final Piece

Since I love both vintage furniture and finding a bargain, great pieces rarely come easily. As a result, many of the key items of furniture in my home have a story behind them. The bedside tables in the guestroom, the modern glass & chrome dining set, the kitchen stools and the coffee table in the living room are all perfect examples. Each piece took some time and effort, but in the end I got what I wanted and paid a fair price. My latest acquisition is no exception. After more than a year of searching, this, my friends, is the FINAL piece of furniture for the condo. The Louis XVI commode (learn more about the term "commode" here) is tucked into the corner of my bedroom to provide a bit more storage for accessories and off season clothing.

I previewed this piece at Empire Auctions, but I tried not to get too excited - this wasn't my first time at the auction rodeo, and I had been outbid several times before (including January's French Antique auction). I was happy to discover that this lot # would fall on an evening following a Blue Jays playoff game, so attendance would be low. Lucky!! The hammer fell after just a few bids and I finally had my coveted Louis XVI commode.

The plan is to hang artwork on the wall around and above the television (Gasp! A tv in the bedroom!!) to disguise its existence, but putting holes in the wall is such a big commitment that I'm hesitant. For now I've leaned one of my favourite photos by photographer Robin Waters behind a tray of colourful perfumes.

Can we pause for a moment to appreciate that stunning marble top? I love the veining of this natural beauty!!

So...no more furniture shopping. Now what?

French Antique Auction

By the time you read this, I'll be fidgeting nervously at the auction house, fist tightly clenched around my paddle as maximum bids roll through my head. In early January my friend Jasmine alerted me to this auction, and I've dreaming about nabbing a few pieces ever since. French Antique Auction? Yes, please!!

I sifted through the preview images and narrowed my choices down to these ten exquisite pieces. If nothing else, I need that marble topped dresser (I've always been outbid at past auctions). If I come home with more than that, I may have to move again. But c'mon, I know I can find a spot for those sconces...and that statue...and that mirror...

Hopefully I'll be back tomorrow with news of successful bidding. Please cross your fingers for me!!

ACO Auction & Tag Sale Roundup

This year's ACO Port Hope auction was somewhat more successful (for me) than last year, since I actually won the item on which I bid. It was fun, quick and painless, and a bid of $12.50 got me a set of four Paragon China demitasse teacups. I don't know anything about the pattern, but it's a beautiful combination of gold, cream and lilac:



In addition to the auction, the ACO runs a tag sale in the next room, and when this Czechoslovakian china went down to half off, the deal was too good to pass up:

20 pieces for $15.00!!!

Helpful hint:

Since they must have sat unused for several years, the Czechoslovakian pieces had a slightly musty smell. I just soaked them overnight in a sink of water with a cup of white vinegar and a few tablespoons of baking soda. Now they're as good as new!!

ACO Port Hope Spring Auction

It's that time of year again - time for the Architectural Conservancy of Ontario (ACO) Port Hope branch annual auction. You never know what you'll find at an auction - you may find something you just can't live without. Last year I bid on a fabulous set of Royal Doulton china, but the final bid was beyond my budget. Maybe this year I'll see you there!!

Where: Town Park Recreation Centre
62 McCaul Street, Port Hope, ON

When: Sunday, April 11th, 2010
Tag Sale & Preview starts at 10 am
Auction begins at 1 pm

Photo courtesy of ACO Port Hope

While you're in Port Hope, I recommend taking the time to explore the historic downtown area. Plus, if you strike out at the auction, there are several antique shops along Walton Street where you can spend the rest of the afternoon.

Port Hope Auction

I'm letting you in on a little secret I've been keeping - the annual auction held by the Port Hope Architectural Conservancy of Ontario (ACO) is happening this coming Sunday, April 5th. It could be a great opportunity to score a great deal on china, silverware, art, furniture...you name it.

Visit the website for further details: http://www.acoporthope.ca/acoauction.html


Since I've provided the tip, should you decide to attend, don't let me catch you bidding against me!!