Patina, Provenance, and Perfection Mark Newport Antiques Show Preview Party

Antique figurehead, English or American, from the Ouester Gallery

To turn the indoor hockey rink at St. George’s School into an enormous Faberge egg, an enchanted place, was the feat accomplished by Mrs. S. Matthews Hamilton, Jr. and her committee for the 3^rd annual Newport Antiques Show, which took place August 7 through 9. Benefiting the Newport Historical Society and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Newport County, the show drew dealers from the Eastern seaboard and New England, who displayed fine paintings, botanical prints, furniture, books, collectibles, and Americana.

Pamela Fielder, David R. Ford & Ruth Buchanan

Reminiscent of the ultra chic experts’ private showings at Sotheby’s and Christie’s, the Antiques show was chaired by Anne Hamilton, its creator, who greeted friends and guests at the early evening showing. Preview Party co-chairs Norey Cullen, Brittain Bardis, and Kate Gubelmann smiled and shook hands at the door, and there was close study of the wares for sale. Champagne and music flowed and floated, as dealers discussed details of their objets. Mrs. Robert H. (Oatsie) Charles, Mrs. John R. Donnell, and Mrs Samuel M.V. Hamilton served as honorary co-chairs.

Sponsor William Vareika & Scott Shiland

On hand were the Newport culturati: Dorrance (Dodo) Hamilton, presenting sponsors William and Alison Vareika of William Vareika Fine Arts, Baroness Frederique van Till, guest of Ronald Lee Fleming, Alice Lynch with friend Peggy Cole, Jay and Suzy Schochet, Jessica Hagen, Denise de Laurentis, Richard Burnham of the NHS, Anne Boenning, Bert Lippincott, Jana Jagoe, and K. & Dottie Woodcock, he a trustee of The National Trust.

Ruth Taylor with dealer

A private party on Thursday evening welcoming dealers such as The Ouester Gallery of Rowayton, Connecticut, The Running Battle Antiques, Alfred Bullard, Inc, and Jerry S. Hayes Fine Majolica, was held at Happy van Beuren’s home on Ocean Drive.