As a new, independent design blogger, I was honored that Helen Burnett, the public relations rep for the 55th Annual Washington Antiques Show, had enough faith in me to invite me to the show’s opening party of last week, before my blog even went live. Not only was I mingling with the cream of Washington society, but I got a chance to check out the most gorgeous antiques from dealers all over the country — before they all got snapped up. Here are a few of my favorites, and thank you again, Helen!
George Subkoff, owner of his eponymous antiques shop in Westport, CT, says Charles Dickens wrote at this table, which was in his publisher's London office in the early 1800's.
I found this drop-leaf desk and chair from Dawn Hill Antiques of New Preston, CT, enchanting. She sells 18th- and 19th-century Swedish painted furniture. You can find some of her pieces at Tone on Tone here in the DC area.
A baker's rack, also from Dawn Hill Antiques.
I would love to store my blankets in this 1680 chest from Running Battle Antiques in Newagen, ME. Alas, it was sold early in the pre-show cocktail party.
This neoclassical Biedermeier yew-wood secretaire cuts a strong profile, from Savenkov Gallery in Midlothian, VA.
I love classic quilts. This 1840 Baltmore "album quilt" from Gemini Antiques in Lebanon, NJ, was made from individual panels contributed by friends and family members. But at $38,000, it's a little out of my range.
Also from Gemini Antiques -- old iron mechanical banks and toys. So cool.
You can't exactly flop down on this 1710 English Queen Anne wing chair, but what a statement piece it makes.
Jennifer Sergent. Native Washingtonian. Former editor at Washington Spaces magazine and HGTV. Currently searching for – and writing about – DC’s design voices. Write to me @