My trip this spring to France included some monthly and annual antique markets that were new to me. What? There are even more flea markets to explore? Sign me up. There are actually more than 15,000 flea markets (brocantes) and garage sales that take place across the country!
There is a large twice-a-year market in the lovely small French village of Barjac, a picturesque town located in the department of Gard in the French region Languedoc-Roussillon in the south of France. The Barjac Antiques Fair at Easter and mid-August is scattered throughout the historic centre and is held over several days, which is a good thing because it took almost an entire day to wander through all the stalls and see all the vendors.
Making our way up and down the streets and among the many levels, I kept thinking this was a lovely village I’d like to return to explore when the centre wasn’t filled with the market. Shops, cafes and restaurants line the streets and there are lots of shady areas under the gnarled and some severely pruned plane trees, surrounded in part by 14th century defensive walls.
I will go so far as to say I think you could find just about anything you were looking for at the Barjac market. There was furniture, vintage wallpaper rollers, lots of bric-a-brac, dishes of all kinds, clothing and textiles, art and paintings, vintage cheese molds, beautiful old doors and shutters, signs, old books, toys, jewelry…you name it, it was probably there.
Of course, the thrill of the hunt at a large market like Barjac is to spot that one unique thing that “speaks” to you and is a one-of-a-kind item. Maybe it’s another perfect example of something you can add to a special collection, or a treasure that will make the perfect gift instead of something from a tourist shop.
This forlorn fella was patiently waiting on his owner to return to her booth. Or else he was guarding it while she stepped away. Or maybe his (her?) expression is because of the unfortunate grooming result.
What treasures did I find at Barjac? A set of two vintage café au lait bowls, which I think are also perfect for ice cream.
And a beautifully detailed old bronze urn that I thought would make a great planter or candle holder. I have a penchant for old things with faces, and this one “spoke” to me — what do you think, perfect with the small fern, right?
So if you love exploring and you like French flea markets, there’s one somewhere in France almost every day and definitely every weekend. Happy hunting!
That Spoon is absolutely beautiful. Did you bring back many serving pieces?
Old French silver-plate and sterling is so much prettier than what you find in the U.S. And I found several sets of of flatware this time around…will be adding them to my new online shop for Chez Suzette as soon as I can get it up and running!
Oh my word I love the bowls and the planters. What an awesome Market!!!
You would be in Heaven over the myriad of things you can find at Barjac, or any other French flea market!
What a lovely experience! Even vicariously, it’s a wonderful journey! Can’t wait to see all you brought home. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks Wanda! Saw more markets on this trip than ever before. So much fun!
Your photos and commentary bring back fond memories of wandering through French flea markets. Sheer pleasure! While looking at your well-done photos, I found myself squinting to search for what I might like to buy. It seems I’m in need of a brocantes fix myself. Thanks for sharing your experience and showing us your treasures. Love the urn!
You will have to return to Provence soon — you can practice your French with all the lovely people you’ll meet at the flea markets!
So enjoyed reading this latest blog from Chez Suzette, and the pictures are simply awesome. I adore my forks from Provence you spotted and use every single day!
And all of my other “finds” from your visits:))
Thanks Nancy! You would be over the moon happy if you ever visit the flea markets in Provence!
Love what you brought home ! The fern is perfect in your urn. Love it . Your bowls would be perfect with your homemade ice cream in them ! I always enjoy what your writing!
Thanks Carol! Found a few other treasures I can’t wait to show you soon.
When friends and family ask me what it is about France that I love so much, “the markets” is always at the top of my list. For me they are truly as taste of France. The people, the fare, the attitudes, the protocol – I could go on and on. A unique glimpse of French life that tourists are allowed. Thanks for my introduction to the antique markets!
Thanks Susan! I hope soon we will have time to wander through many of the flea markets in Provence. It will be fun to watch you spot a treasure that just might go home with you!