Collectors were in
abundance on the first three preview days for the Brussels Antiques and Fine Art Fair (BRAFA). Alongside an impressive array of dealers specializing in decorative art, jewelry, African art, and European paintings were leaders of the antiques world such as Axel Vervoordt. He showed a massive partners desk in his minimalist booth and Steinitz was jam-packed with their world-class boiseries, 18th-century furniture fit for a queen and endless pedigreed objects.
The eclectic and international selection of art and objects presented at the fair drew in an equally diverse audience. The local Bruxellois are well-known collectors who were seen buying pieces on the first night. The fair is noted for reasonable prices and its vetting process ensuring that all objects are just as the dealers claim. New York-based interior designer Richard Mishaan planned a special visit for the fair because he was attracted by the better values available in Brussels.
Among the gems at BRAFA was a large 1959 Poul Kjaerholm desk in rosewood that appeared to float over stainless steel legs. The selection of Suzanne Belperron jewels presented by La Galerie Parisienne included a stunning ring set with two pearls on carved agate surrounded by diamonds in platinum. De Backker Medieval Art showed a beautifully sculpted arched door that was constructed during the 15th century in Toledo, Spain. The door travelled as ship’s ballast to a slave plantation in Barbados and finally ended up at Dulford House in Devonshire before arriving at their booth. Even the suite of rooms occupied by fair sponsor Delen Private Bank was filled to the brim with their collection of mid-century classics.
BRAFA runs through January 27, for more information visit: www.brafa.be
