French la Vie

French la Vie

 

Starting a Cabinet of Curiosity for a Client
2026-04-14 11:00 UTC by Corey

Little by little, piece by piece, one unusual thing after another—I wade slowly through the brocante, peering into every small box and across each tabletop like a scavenger hunter. I try to stay focused, resisting the call of the larger, more obvious beauties.

Instead, I search for the small things—the ones that require a closer look, a bit more patience.

I’ve been loving it lately. Recently, someone asked me to send them a box of small treasures. How could I possibly resist?

With my house nearly overflowing, (okay stuffed) I’m thankful I have clients who want me to send them French brocante stuff- big or small. It gives my passion an avenue.

Plus, I learned so much about French history and culture by going to the brocantes in France. Lessons that are passed down through objects and craft.

A Catholic WWI solider’s prayer token to hold in their pocket.

Here’s a glimpse of what I found:

  • A souvenir of Paris with tiny pictures tucked inside
  • A face powder box with its original label
  • An inkwell and calligraphy pen holder
  • A baby rattle.
  • A game counter in bakelite and silver
  • Pipe ancienne Gambier JACOB
  • À a vice president pin handmade
  • Prayer token
  • A châtelaine’s louis d’Ore coin purse
  • Religious document sceau

 

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