Manhattan Art & Antiques Center — Attraction in New York

Very happy that the Art & Antiques Center is open...Sunday was my first time to return since March. Public spaces were spotless. The main entrance was manned by a very pleasant gentleman, professionally dressed with a tie. After saying good afternoon, he politely asked that I sign the guest book (for tracing, if necessary), took my temperature, then welcomed me to the Center. All very civilized. The Center is a treasure trove of virtually every possible period with something for every collector. My favorite shop is David Meyers Antiques on the lower lever just off of the spiral staircase. David is extremely well versed in his collections offered in his shop...one area of import is Chinese Export. Also an excellent range of European pieces. A very polite and articulate dealer...affordable...

I've been to the open-air Bermondsey Market and a number of others in London, in Amsterdam and Antwerp, over the years. Contrast them to a collective indoor consortium down the block from Sutton Place. Here, there are real professional-specialist types as to paintings, clocks, furniture, jewelry, sculpture, lighting, rugs, antiquarian books, Judaica, tapestry, china, crystal. Some dealers are approachable, some appear apathetic, but not one acts as if they're doing you a favor. Like any time you need to spend discretionary resources, or sell what you hold, you need to do thorough research. Be sure of that authenticity. Once you do, you can be overjoyed with your prized possession(s) ! Pertinent: Many vendors are closed...

Imagine all your oldest relative's attics, furniture and fine silver tucked away in one location in individual 'stores' of varying themes and prices. Many of the stalls are closed with contact information so you can only view with your face pressed against the glass or grates. Other stalls are open and staffed by friendly and not-so-friendly owners who seem bent on not selling their antiques. A mixed bag, but lots of fun to shop and worth the journey to the east side...