Small finely inlaid furniture, chandeliers, Rococo mirrors and other trinkets, Malika Arege-Saade will find you the piece that will bring relief to your interior. Come and pick the heart of this antique dealer, always faithful to her first love for classic furniture.
What is your background ?
I have always made trades in contact with the public. Before being an antique dealer, I worked in a business center in the 16th arrondissement, and younger, in the restaurant industry. I like this contact with people. I then met my husband who, since his childhood, bathes in the world of antiques. So naturally he quickly took me to flea market. I quickly loved Paul Bert Serpette and wanted to install me there. In 1998, we first rented a booth in alley 4 of Paul Bert, then in 2001, we bought the booth on which we are still currently.
What is your speciality ?
I have always loved the marquetry, my clients know me for it. We remained attached to the classic and never wanted to sell anything else. Some antique dealers follow trends, I want to stay loyal to what I like. I buy a lot by crush, without really thinking of the commercial aspect, I am more in the emotional. If I like the objects I present, I think that potentially, other people will love them too. I also started chandeliers and girandoles, from the nineteenth to the early twentieth, in a very classic spirit. I have a particular taste for small furniture, which can be carried everywhere and can fit into the decor of any apartment. I have never been attracted by big rustic furniture, I prefer finesse and elegance.
What does Paul Bert Serpette represent for you?
It's a market that has a real soul. Paul Bert Serpette is a chic place that has not lost its authenticity. I feel at home and I am faithful to the places where I live.
Can you present us an item from your booth?
I have a Faberge egg made of crystal and bronze dating from the beginning of the 20th century. It is a very delicate piece, of high quality, the bronze is very finely chiseled. When we open it we are surprised to discover a caviar service, like a little treasure. I like this object because it comes out of the common and combines utility and decoration.
How do you see the antique trade?
This job is a real addiction, we can not get rid of it, that's why we often see very old antique dealers. It's a friendly job, we meet a lot of people and I like that. Talking to customers about things is always a pleasure. I like to please my clients by presenting quality furniture at reasonable prices.
