Antique Shopping in Copenhagen
I freely admit that I’m always on the hunt for wonderful antique stores whenever I travel. I think finding a truly unique, small treasure is the perfect souvenir from any trip. I display them in my “cabinet of curiosities” in my living room, and it brings me great joy to look at each piece and recall where I procured it. I try to look for items made in the country I’m in. Unless the store ships, it must be small, as I don’t typically have much spare room in my suitcase. (Can we say chronic over-packer?!)
I think finding a truly unique, small treasure is the perfect souvenir from any trip.
Since the last time I was in Copenhagen, many of the intriguing, musty-smelling sub-terranean shops I recall visiting have sadly closed, though I did stumble upon a few. I was extremely pleased to find some gems on Store Kongensgade, which is an easy walk from the main city center.
First up is Harsted Antik, owned by an ultra-organized man named Christian. Everything is grouped by type and color, and each item’s price is clearly labeled. Lucky for me, he ships to the US. I was thrilled, as I found an incredible wood and enamel box by Alfred Klitgaard with the enameling done by Bodil Eje. Even the hinge on it is carved from wood – incredible! He has a wonderful collection of glass, porcelain, and other assorted treasures. Be sure to check out his web shop.
I was thrilled, as I found an incredible wood and enamel box by Alfred Klitgaard with the enameling done by Bodil Eje.
Fil de Fer is another tantalizing shop, specializing in French antiques, though I did spot some key items from Italy as well. It’s sort of a long store, with quite a few little rooms to explore off the main part. I really did feel like I was in Paris as I explored every nook and cranny. I was particularly taken with a couple porcelain vases with a sea motif by Kérina Monaco. Being a Pisces, I always have a penchant for fish! There were also numerous vintage crystal chandeliers I would gladly have grace my ceiling!
Danam Antik is another outstanding shop, run by Peter. I don’t know how he keeps the shop shining so brightly, with his extensive collection of silver. The theme appears to be blue, white, and silver, so if this resonates with you, do not miss this shop. And yes, he has a wonderful web shop and ships internationally as well. He has a beautiful selection of silver jewelry by Danish Designer Georg Jensen. I keep thinking about one item in particular. It’s a sterling silver bowl, and the inside has a lovely abstract blue and white enamel pattern. It’s by Anton Michelsen Inger Hanmann. So lovely…. #pondering
AND…I was beyond fortunate to be in Copenhagen during Denmark’s largest indoor flea market, which takes place twice a year at the Bella Center. I hopped on the metro at the city center. Ten minutes and 6 stops later, I was at the event. There must have been at least 200 vendors, and I have to say that I was a bit overwhelmed when I first arrived.
I soon got my groove on, and I methodically explored one row at a time. It took me a few hours, but I think I managed to see pretty much everything. Many dealers accepted mobile pay but only using a Danish credit card. Luckily, they have an onsite bank where you can draw cash on your debit card for a mere 10 kroner fee. Well worth it! I must admit… I had to take out cash twice.
I was beyond fortunate to be in Copenhagen during Denmark’s largest indoor flea market, which takes place twice a year at the Bella Center.
Again, if I wasn’t traveling, I would have scooped up loads of glass, Danish pottery, and vintage Christmas ornaments. Alas, I found a couple small pieces for great deals that will easily fit in my carry-on. If you go, know that they also serve food. I had a traditional open-faced sandwich on rye with eggs and shrimp, and it was quite good.
I hope you enjoyed this glimpse into antiques to be found in Copenhagen. If you travel there, please let me know what you find. I’d love to hear!! To have access to my full little black book for Copenhagen, click here to join.
