Regular readers of this blog will know my issue with buying vintage and antiques in Hong Kong, and will be equally familiar with my love for mixing furnishings and art from various eras and styles. Well, I've met a kindred spirit in Authentiques founder, Kate Davies. Not only do we love to mix and antique and modern, but we also share the same maiden name, and we're both from Melbourne!
Kate started out as a TV news reporter in Australia before making her way to Hong Kong and transitioning to public relations and events in the banking world. 16 years later, Kate is now embarking on a new venture, although the passion and experience with antiques is hardly new at all.
Raised in a home decorated by parents with an innate sense of style and a genuine passion for antiques and history, Kate says she is never happier than when in their home, and tries to find a similar ambiance wherever she is in the world.
The Authentiques gallery space in the colourful neighbourhood of Sheung Wan opened earlier this year after years of Kate offering a personalised antique shopping service and a successful pop-up store at the beginning of the year.
By specialising in one of a kind pieces of furniture and decorative arts from the 18th and 19th Century from the UK and Europe, the gallery is also a one of a kind in Hong Kong.
Kate plans to host educational discussions about valuing antiques and collectables, antique appreciation, restoring antiques, the furniture of Kings and Queens and their servants, plus in-depth conversations with well-known collectors and experts. Made-to-measure personal purchasing services, unique overseas trips, buying at auction or from dealers are all topics on the agenda as well.
The gallery is open on Sundays or by appointment, or head over on a Wednesday evening like I did, for a naughty mid-week drink (or two).
