On the cards

Someone who’s made his name by combining quiet good taste with plenty of fun is Ben Pentreath. His store at 17, Rugby Street, London WC1 (020–7430 2526), is a brilliant hunting ground for quirky, offbeat gifts such as découpage by New York designer John Derian and plates from Astier de Villatte in Paris. For those who like their Christmas cards to be discreet (without being dull), there are some with illustrations by Eric Ravilious (£5.50 for a pack of 10).