Antiques Journal
News from the antiques and vintage world, from fairs to collectors’ stories
MEET THE COLLECTOR TANIA FAWCETT
What I collect: I have a passion for 19th-century glass decanters. I keep around ten in my collection and each new find is always my favourite. I originally started buying decanters to sell for my business, The Vintage Entertainer (thevintageentertainer.com), however I quickly developed seller’s remorse and found myself thinking wistfully about the perfect ones I had sold. I’ve since adopted a ‘one for you, one for me’ approach!
Why I collect: I started buying glass decanters because they make great colour-popping additions to a dining table. I particularly like tall examples with unusual stoppers; generally, they either originate from Bohemia (as the western part of the Czech Republic was then known) or England. The two great UK makers – Richardson and Stephenson – created stunning designs in a mesmerising green while the Bohemians were brilliant at cut-to-clear designs. Most were designed for wine but I also use them for water.
How I collect: To my husband’s chagrin I spend most of my spare time sourcing pieces from auctions, trade fairs and other dealers. I could happily spend hours researching makers and designs on the internet, and tracking down examples like a glass-obsessed Miss Marple! Prices in my collection range between £100 and £1,000; just like a diamond, cost depends on the rarity, colour, cut and clarity.
My collection highlight: My current favourites are a stunning pair of shaft-and-globe decanters with matching stoppers (left), circa 1846, by Richardson of Stourbridge. I’ve put them on a shelf in the kitchen so that I can see them every day. I’m a firm believer that antiques should be seen and used rather than locked away in a cupboard.