Listen to history
Antique pieces with torn upholstery, cracks, chips and stains tell authentic stories—so be aware of replicas that eavesdrop on history.
Words ELIZABETH CLARKE • Imagery JODY D’ARCY
Acquiring an antique piece is rarely about the actual object. It’s about its history, the maker, and the personal connection you feel to it.
"For me, the story behind each piece is the most important factor," agrees art dealer Bronte Talon of Cleo Collects. "It's what brings charm and character. Each antique tells a story and holds a special place in my heart."
Bronte recently relocated Cleo Collects to a new space in Highgate, a treasure trove of handpicked pieces from France (where she grew up) and Italy, dating from the 1940s to the 1960s. Walking into the space feels like stepping into a time capsule, with each piece echoing the history and artistry of its era.
Starting a collection can be daunting, but Bronte's keen eye makes her the go-to person for all things antique. Here, she shares her best advice for diving into the world of collecting.
Do your research but follow your heart
Understanding the history and significance of the items you're looking for is an important and exciting part of buying antiques. "I love to understand the history of every piece, and a good antique dealer has that knowledge –who the designer is, what series the piece comes from, and how and where it was made," says Bronte. “It’s important to do your research so you get to know different designers' signature styles from various eras, which makes it easier to spot their work, especially in Paris and small European market fairs. I am not always drawn to iconic designers; I can love something unique because it speaks to me. There can be beauty in the unknown. I listen to my heart; if a piece sings, I know in the moment.”
Start small
Bronte recommends taking baby steps when buying antique decor and furniture, especially if purchasing pieces for a contemporary-styled interior. “Large pieces can feel overwhelming and difficult to visualise,” she says. “We specialise in Art Deco and Brutalist styles, so a client might buy a stool with a bobbin or twist detail and add it to a contemporary setting, which lifts it instantly. Designers love small decorative pieces, like Murano or Rostrato glass lighting with their curvy, spiky aesthetic that adds interest to modern interiors.”
Seek out pieces featuring interesting designs and artisanal details, as well as textiles and tapestries. “Many were hand-woven in the 1600s and draped over armchairs or hung on walls in castles, so their value is significant and their stories rich," Bronte says.
Interesting decor is easy to style on a shelf or coffee table and can easily elevate any surface. Bronte gravitates to candle holders, especially those in the Brutalist style, whose imperfections and obscure angles are the perfect addition to a new table setting.
“Murano vases in all sizes and colours are fun statement pieces, and lamps, especially beautiful Italian bamboo styles that are playful and different, add real warmth.”
Art is instinctive, and Bronte says still-life kitchen scenes are among the most popular. "Many people want a pair of paintings depicting a cooking theme to hang in a new kitchen," she says. "It gives your space that south of France feel.”
Think beyond perfect
In a world where perfection reigns, antique pieces with their torn upholstery, cracks, chips and stains allow the passage of time to be noticeable. “My house is filled with everything that is too imperfect for my shop!” laughs Bronte. “Most of these pieces are over a century old, so scratches and tarnished timber stains are important to their character. It’s a personal preference to revarnish or reupholster, but for me, there’s beauty in imperfection and their past lives.”
Old meets new
Blend modern pieces with antiques to create unique interiors. Their handcrafted, imperfect forms and unfinished edges strike an interesting balance with contemporary design's sharp, clean aesthetics.
"It's about finding the right balance, such as a beautiful old sideboard styled with glossy books and a modern lamp," says Bronte. “Don’t be afraid to mix metals, form, and consider their function. Antique sideboards, for example, are great for storage."
Brutalist-style knobs created by sculptural artists are easy updates for kitchen drawers. Bar stools are also a great find, especially Italian versions made of bamboo and original 1960s-style stools featuring colourful upholstery. "Many modern kitchens have sleek, minimalist designs, so incorporating bar stools can introduce a sculptural element to the space," Bronte says.
Get lit
When shopping for vintage lighting, such as classic mid-century pendants or Art Deco wall sconces, it's important to consider not only their aesthetics but the electrical work needed for functionality. "People often worry about whether antique lighting will work, which is understandable because rewiring can be hard and sometimes impossible," says Bronte. "We rewire every light, lamp and sconce, and know if it’s possible. For instance, rewiring a lamp made of rope is impossible because it's filled with lead, while rewiring Murano glass sconces and chandeliers is easy, except for those with a thin brass arm that won't allow a thick Australian wire. Understanding what you're doing and trusting your dealer is important."
Beware of replicas
The growing popularity of vintage shopping has led to an increase in the availability of replicas in the market so it's important to be able to distinguish between them to avoid being scammed, says Bronte. “There are many fake items out there, especially replicas of rope lamps designed by artists like Audoux Minet.”
To avoid falling victim to replicas, it's important to know what you're looking for and to ask the dealer or store about the item's origin, location and materiality.
“Most dealers can provide certificates, particularly for more expensive pieces or artworks,” Bronte says. “When it comes to artwork, look for signatures, and for furniture, always check for branding stickers.”
Bronte’s
Where To Shop for the Best Vintage in France
PUCES DE LA PORTE DE VANVES. Avenue Marc Sangnier & Avenue Georges Lafenestre, 75014 Paris.
LES PUCES DE MONTREUIL. 6 Avenue du Professeur André Lemierre, 75020 Paris.
PUCES DE PARIS SAINT-OUEN. 110 Rue des Rosiers, 93400 Saint-Ouen-sur-Seine.
FOIRE DE CHATOU ANTIQUE FAIR. île des Impressionnistes, 78400 Chatou.
Follow @cleo.collects
Cleo Collects
75 Smith St, Highgate
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