This article was adapted from the original video published on Texas to Milan’s YouTube channel.

Parma Antique Fair 2022 Highlights

I wanted to reflect on a popular episode from my YouTube channel – my trip to Il Mercante in Fiera, the antique fair in Parma, Italy, back in October 2022. The episode has reached over 20,000 views, and I still receive questions about it, so I thought I’d share my treasure findings and some of my observations from that day.

The scale of the fair was immediately apparent. The various halls were filled with a broad range of items, from historical pieces to art and general curiosities. It was a comprehensive display of antiques.

Parma Fair Hall 6 Finds

The sheer quantity of items was initially overwhelming. Each booth presented a different era and aesthetic. Early on, I noted a “Trojan ostrich,” which seemed indicative of the fair’s eclectic nature.

I saw a variety of smaller items and distinctive finds: a hand written lampshade, Wedgwood pieces, and Christmas decorations dating back to the 1970s. One piece was priced at 15 euros.

Brooches, Pottery, China and Platters

Further into the fair, the displays became more intricate. Vintage branded signs like Coca-Cola and Campbell Soup boy greet you. Then there were the numerous brooches, priced at 10 euros each. A uniquely shaped candle holder, with floral decorations. This piece is from Germany, priced at 400 euros. The range of goods on offer was diverse, from miniature cars, delicate china, trays to unusual collectibles.

I came across a tray in its original packaging, and then some Beatrix Potter memorabilia. Items were to be handled carefully, as expected.

Some ceramic pieces warranted closer inspection, such as the older ceramics and patterns priced at between 30 euros to 50 euros. One notable find was a white ceramic platter with an unfamiliar design of flowers, fruits and a bird. I considered its suitability for autumn and Thanksgiving due to the green, yellow and brown tones. The asking price was only 20 euros.

At a nearby booth adjacent, silverware was abundant.

Physics At The Fair?

An antique set designed to teach physics to children stood out amongst the Hermes and Cartier clocks. A delicate cameo caught my attention. It was attractive but appeared slightly damaged.

The fair presented a large range of items to view. There were lamps, chandeliers (including a pink one), bright mirrors and lighting.

A lit up jukebox was on display, right next to a retro music box. An antique turntable cum side table was also spotted.

The next booth had vintage pop art and movie posters along with old fashioned wooden toys which were just so cute.

Christmas Ornaments

Despite it being October, there were a lot of Christmas decorations on show. One group of ornaments featured snakes dangling a Christmas bauble from their mouths. There is also a large selection of boxed, sweeter Christmas tree ornaments. Original glass baubles looked so appealing to me.

Now for Parma Fair Hall 5

A 1,400 euro metal crown immediately caught my eye amongst a selection of smaller crowns. If you are ever going to get a crown, get the biggest one that fits your head is my personal life motto.

Religious Art Scenes

There was a particularly elaborate nativity scene, representing a complete Italian village. I also spotted components for creating a Christmas village and numerous nativity scenes. Other religious items were prevalent, including blue church models priced at 70 euros, and smaller versions for 25 euros. There was also a sheep figure, holy water containers and various jars.

Furniture DIY Finds at Parma Fair

An impressive ladder was also present, alongside a large antique globe priced at 8,500 euros and standing at four and a half feet tall. A quirky wooden item of uncertain purpose was speculated to be for books, magazines, or clothing.

Some notable home findings include pianofortes, large carpets, huge period wooden tables, what I believe is an appliance resembling a fridge, a four-poster bed, handpainted cabinets, vintage bathroom fittings that were on display, as well as glass gas lamps and oil paintings. Not forgetting the adorable seal playing with a football piece.

Outside, traffic lights and table decorations were on offer, as well as large pots and statues. Statues of horses, lions, goats and even birds were showcased.

Vintage Style Showcased

Fashion items and linens were displayed, along with jewellery and accessories including a Gucci piece at 400 euros. Luxury bags are of course stored in glass display cabinets from the beloved local houses of Gucci, Fendi and Prada. Hermes, Christian Dior, Louis Vuitton, Chanel and YSL bags are also sold. Classic Hermes silk scarves are individually hung on hangers, starting from 440 euros. Coats were priced at around 300 euros. Linens and textiles are also laid out galore.

Recalling the Fair

Hopefully, this trip down memory lane provided some insight into Il Mercante in Fiera. I encourage everyone interested in thrifting or antiques to visit Parma. Subscribe for more of my adventures, and happy hunting everyone.

Watch my video here.