For as long as I can remember, antiquing in France has been far more than a pastime for me. It has been a way of understanding this country — its history, its craftsmanship, its sense of beauty, and its deeply rooted relationship with time. Over the years, through markets, brocantes, village fairs, and quiet conversations with dealers, antiques have offered me a privileged doorway into French life.
It is this journey that I wanted to capture in my new book, The Art of Antiquing in France, which will be published next March.
This book is not a price guide, nor is it intended only for seasoned collectors. Instead, it is an invitation to look more closely, to slow down, and to discover the poetry behind French antiques and the places where they are found. It is written for Francophiles, lovers of beautiful interiors, curious travellers, and anyone who has ever been drawn to a flea market stall simply because something “felt right”.
At its heart, The Art of Antiquing in France explores what French antiquing truly is. It is about more than objects. It is about atmosphere, instinct, and knowledge passed quietly from one generation to the next. The book takes readers inside the world of French antique dealers — those passionate guardians of history who dedicate their lives to sourcing, restoring, and preserving pieces of the past. Over the last few years, researching and writing this book led me to meet an extraordinary number of them, each with their own story, eye, and philosophy.
Within these pages, you will discover the different types of antiques France is known for. From furniture and decorative objects to garden elements and architectural salvage — explained in an accessible, engaging way. I share how to recognise quality, how to understand patina, and why imperfections are often what give an object its soul. You’ll learn why a worn tabletop can be more desirable than a pristine one, and how age, use, and craftsmanship come together to create authenticity.
The book also takes you on a journey through France itself. Antiquing here is inseparable from place, and each region has its own character and traditions. From village brocantes held at dawn to established antique shops tucked away on quiet streets, I explore where to go, what to expect, and how to approach antiquing with confidence, even if you don’t speak French fluently.
I’ve included lots of practical advice, always grounded in experience rather than rules. How do you approach a dealer? How do you transport finds? How do you buy without feeling intimidated? These are the questions I am so often asked, and that I’ve answered in the book.
But above all, The Art of Antiquing in France is about living with antiques today. I firmly believe that old pieces deserve to be part of modern life, not confined to formal interiors or admired from a distance. Throughout the book, I share antiques that can live alongside contemporary elements, bringing warmth, texture, and meaning to a home.
This book is also deeply personal. It reflects my own relationship with France, with beauty, and with the art of collecting slowly and intentionally. Writing it allowed me to pause and reflect on why antiques matter, not because they are fashionable, but because they carry stories, gestures, and memories. In a fast-paced world, they remind us of the value of time and continuity.
I’m hoping that this book will be useful to those who are already familiar with buying French antiques, and bring inspiration to those who have never had the opportunity or dared venture out and buy. Because it offers inspiration rather than instruction. Because it opens doors to a world that can sometimes feel closed or intimidating. Because it celebrates a way of living that values craftsmanship, sustainability, and emotional connection. Whether you are planning a trip to France, dreaming from afar, or simply looking to deepen your appreciation of French style, this book will accompany you, much like a trusted friend guiding you through a brocante at sunrise.
The Art of Antiquing in France is, quite simply, an invitation to see France — and its treasures — with new eyes.
For those of you who would like something truly special, we have created an exclusive gift set, only available through the My French Country Home Boutique, which includes a signed copy of my new book. This beautifully curated set is available for pre-order HERE.
You may also choose to reserve the February Box, which will include a signed copy of the book, along with 6 – 7 French treasures that are dear to me, and of course, a beautiful antique item, all thoughtfully chosen to reflect my love of France and French antiques. Click HERE to reserve yours today.
If you’d prefer to purchase just the book, it’s available HERE on Amazon (kindly note that these copies will not be signed).
Thinking of gifting this to a loved one for the holidays? Simply send us an email to contact@mfchbox.com, and we will provide you with a printable flyer that you can place under the tree or give as a gift at any moment.
