Anthony Marcusa –
In a recently renovated location in a lively downtown neighbourhood, antiques sellers are hoping a new market will attract collectors.
Antiques at St. Lawrence Market kicked off its new residency on Sunday June 21, on the main floor hall of the light and airy St. Lawrence Market North Building. Completed last year, the building makes for a bright and spacious home for vendors; during its fourth week, the space was filled with guests on a sunny summer morning.
David Zammit, lead organizer of the event, brings decades of experience to the market. Owner of Bernardi’s Antiques & Heritage Antique Show Sales, he has been in the business for over 35 years. Zammit says he’s excited about the energy of the new market and the promise it holds.
“It’s a good mix of vintage and antiques,” he told the bridge. Items at least a century old are considered antique, while those from the 1930s to 1970s are deemed vintage. Zammit oversees the vendor application process, seeking a reputable and diverse group.
“I’ve known some of the sellers,” he said, “but there are some new faces.”
Antiques are part of the family for Zammit, who has been buying, selling and appraising them for decades while running shows around the GTA, including the Heritage Antique Market at Centerpoint Mall at Steeles Avenue and Yonge Street. Zammit’s father was also in the antique business, a connection he credits with his interest.
“If he wasn’t so young and energetic, I wouldn’t be doing this.”
A variety of offerings were on display on a recent Sunday, from dishware and jewelry to movie posters and old books. Some vendors showcased old toys and branded merchandise such as a French Pepsi-Cola clock, while others sold figurines and artifacts from India, Russia, China and elsewhere.
Serious collectors with large offerings are joined by casual sellers who may have accumulated saleable items. “We just started this year, doing it as a hobby,” said one couple. “We enjoy the process of collecting things and passing them on to someone else to enjoy.”
Zammit believes the new market’s location, diversity of sellers and vetting process will entice more people to the space – and more transactions.
Don Lake, operator of D&E Lake Ltd., which has sold rare books, antique documents and other collectibles since 1977, welcomes the large market. saying Toronto needs a hub where collectors and buyers come together.
“This is a really important event,” said Lake at his shop on King Street East, a short walk from the market. “Every city has an important antique bearer every month.” He praised the new market’s location, depth, scale and variety.
“It’s a lovely venue,” he added. “The promoters are absolutely professional, and the quality of dealers will continue to grow.”
Antiques at St. Lawrence Market runs weekly, except for the last Sunday of each month, from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free.
