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Antique Books Fair
Book lovers and historians a like will find the Antique Book Fair in Paris to be a must see. Held in the Grand Palais this world renowned spring time event is chockfull of interesting books from international vendors. Everyone from museum collectors to the casual shopper can be seen browsing the shelves.
Known as the Salon Delivre Ancien, the Paris book fair held its first event in in 1984 at the Coniegerie which was once the prison that held Maria Antoinette. Since 2007 the fair has moved and is now held every spring in the Grand Palais at the heart of the city. This a well known Paris landmark and its high glass ceilings provide natural light perfect for browsing books, scanning manuscripts or simply marveling at all of the stalls. Over 20,000 visitors have attended this event and vendors from countries all over the world, such as those from Brazil or the United States, come to display their wares.
Like the city of Light itself, the Antique Book Fair is known for adding a touch of elegance to searching for books. All of the over 150 booksellers that attend each year meticulously set up their booth to be a work of art. While the term "antique" may apply to many of the books that browsers find, some of these wares feel more historic or even may even classify as ancient artifacts. Some such objects include books dating back to the middle ages and before, or rare copies of the books by the the avant-garde writers of the early twentieth century. There is also a wide variety of first editions and books with rare bindings.
Despite the fact that antique and first addition books are the event's specialty, this large event also has a wide variety of other antiquities, including rare prints and art, photography, letters, posters and much more. Many of the large booths offer snacks and beautiful displays, but may appear more intended for the serious collector and seem intimidating to the casual browser, the smaller booths are considered a good start for the new visitor who is up for some serious browsing for that next great treasure.
This event is one of the most famous of its kind in the world and offers a unique opportunity to learn more about the literary world and the book itself. As you browse you can discover rare gems among books you would otherwise think to be common. Booth owners are usually cordial and eager to help you and answer any questions.
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