The Northern Antiques Dealers Fair returns under new management, but offering the same high quality
WHEN I reported the Northern Antiques Dealers Fair in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, in September 1992, I began by quoting the 10th Viscount Downe’s remarks in opening the very first fair, in 1951. His words seem even more relevant today than they did 25 years ago and, as the fair, under new ownership, has reverted to its original name, I venture to repeat them here.
He said: ‘In these days when the terms “austerity”, “utility” and “short supply” have such real meaning for all of us in Britain, it is surely a welcome treat to be able to visit such an exhibition… for here we can examine and appreciate works of art made by craftsmen whose guiding principles were the striving for perfection and loyalty to their craft.
Back in 1992, I suggested substituting ‘recession’ for the Viscount’s terms; now, the word might stand in only for utility, leaving austerity and short supply in place. Although I don’t know of any examples, it would not be surprising to find pieces of Utility Furniture at such a fair nowadays.
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