[Antique Market]
Do you like antique markets? At Shokunin.com, we sell traditional artifacts, which sometimes feel like rare antiques. We often have customers who tell us they would like to display them without using them.
While antique markets are known by various names such as flea markets, bazaars, and bric-a-brac fairs, the term "flea market" does not derive from "free" in "free market." Rather, it stems from the word "flea," indicating a market with origins in the French phrase "marché aux puces." This translation refers to the gathering of goods reminiscent of fleas, curated by merchants called "chiffonniers" in late 19th-century Paris. The term also reflects the image of people and objects seemingly swarming in like fleas from all directions. Additionally, the prominent Clignancourt flea market in the northernmost part of Paris gained its name when a visitor, upon witnessing a heap of discarded items from atop the city walls, exclaimed, "This is a flea market!"
France holds a profound reverence for history, tradition, and culture, and this is reflected even in their flea markets. One can sense the European spirit of cherishing the old amidst the stalls of flea markets. In Japan, the period of rapid economic growth from the 1950s led to material prosperity in tandem with industrial development, marking an era of mass production and consumption. However, in recent times, the values of happiness have shifted from material abundance to spiritual richness.
Antique markets are typically held on weekends, showcasing various items such as antique art, vintage utensils, tableware, and miscellaneous goods. The "Oedo Antique Market," the largest open-air antique market in Japan, boasts around 250 stalls. Engaging with history and culture, there's a delightful experience in stumbling upon well-preserved treasures that have been cherished and used over time.
The Oedo Antique Market is conveniently situated near the Ginza showroom. We invite you to explore both these destinations.
Oedo Antique Market
https://www.antique-market.jp
Ginza Showroom
https://www.shokunin.com/en/showroom/ginza.html
References
https://ja.wikipedia.org/wiki/蚤の市
https://ja.wikipedia.org/wiki/骨董品
