From 21 to 24 November 2024, the 51st Antiques Fair at the New Town Hall in Prague (Novoměstská radnice) will open its doors, inviting visitors to a unique exhibition. Around 40 prominent antique dealers from the Czech Republic and Moravia will showcase a selection of fascinating pieces that reflect the fair’s autumn theme—‘Art Trends and Their Return’—in an impressive way.
The 51st Antiques Fair not only offers a variety of antiques, but also insights into art history and the revival of historical techniques. A notable example is the Czech artist Josef Drahoňovský, a master of glyptics (stone carving). His world-famous works, including ten gemstones made of rock crystal, rose quartz, and agate, are exhibited by the antiques dealer Michal Jankovský. These pieces reflect how art techniques have been revitalised through the ages, from antiquity to the classical and imperial periods.
Other highlights include exquisite pieces of jewellery that illustrate the development of artistic styles and trends. For instance, the antique dealer Cinolter is displaying an 18-carat gold bracelet with ruby bows and diamond roulettes dating back to the Biedermeier period. The ‘Giardinetti’ brooch, set with diamonds, pearls, and precious stones from the late 19th century, is a captivating example of the transition to Art Deco. Czechantik delights with an Art Deco decanter by Moser, inspired by the decorative traditions of the Biedermeier period, while Alma Antique presents a collection of 19th-century glassware featuring decorations in various artistic styles.
On Saturday, 23 November, the programme will be complemented by a lecture titled ‘Expo 58 – Brussels Style’, which will explore the emergence of a new design and architectural style in the 1950s and 1960s.
On the final day of the fair, Sunday 24 November, from 10:00 to 16:00, visitors will have the opportunity to have their artworks and collectors’ items valued and receive free advice from experts. This is an ideal opportunity for collectors and art enthusiasts to learn more about the value of antiques.
The fair is organised by the Asociace starožitníků (Association of Antique Dealers), an association dedicated to promoting professional development within the antiques market and offering academic training in art history. The fair promises to be a must-see event for all art and antiques lovers.
