TEFAF Maastricht 1996 [antikvár]

Foreword richard knight - Chairman Pictura jan dirven — Chairman Antiquairs The Board of Trustees of The European Fine Art Foundation is delighted to present, once again in Maastricht, the first of its international fairs for 1996. The excellence and scope of this year's fair is underlined by many of the highlights illustrated in this new handbook. It has been redesigned, expanded and aimed at the widest possible audience, well in advance of the Fair itself It contains concise details on participating dealers, with examples of their stock, now marked where appropriate with the selling price. Until now this important information has been missing. Many dealers have responded to the opportunity to publish prices and their willingness to cooperate will be applauded. The handbook also includes well-researched essays on aspects of art history of lasting reference value. Here, the international art trade can demonstrate its technical expertise, connoisseurship, its continuing support and enthusiasm for this remarkable event. The Board has also reviewed the floorplan once again, as a consequence of the many constructive suggestions made by last year's visitors and exhibitors. To improve ease of movement around the Fair, significant changes have again been introduced -wider aisles, signposting for better orientation, tefaf Touch Screen System terminals and the opening up of vistas, intended to create a more pleasing overall atmosphere. We trust that this revised plan will meet with everyone's approval and serve the Fair for many years to come. We deeply regret to announce the death of three of our exhibitors: honorary Board member Jack Vecht (Kunstzalen A. Vecht, Amsterdam), Patrick Ampe (Kailash Gallery, Antwerp) and Michel Meyer (Paris). Jack Vecht was the eminence grise of the Dutch art and antiques trade. We are grateful for all he did for TEFAF Maastricht. Patrick Ampe passed away in a tragic accident. He was founding member of Textura and a delightful person who will be remembered for his expertise and meticulous conduct in business. Michel Meyer was one of the pillars of the French antique dealing establishment. A member of the Antiquaires a Paris group his taste was not narrowly Parisian but encompassed objets d'art, Oriental art and exceptional French furniture. We express our sympathy to the family members of these three distinguished gentlemen. We would hke to take this opportunity to thank Mr B.J.M. Baron van Voorst tot Voorst, governor of the Queen for the Province of Limburg and Mr Ph.J.I.M. Houben, burgomaster of Maastricht for once again hosting us in their province and city.