Les Bouquinistes

To continue with the nostalgic theme of the merchants of memorabilia, what better then sellers of old, antique books, first editions, signed copies, sepia postcards from the turn of the century, and other used manuals. 

Les Bouquinistes, the used-book sellers you can find along the Seine and around Notre-Dame, have been around forever. As a matter of fact, many impressionist paintings depict them. They have become an iconic fixture of the Paris landscape since the mid-1500s when shops and stalls lined most of the bridges in Paris. You cannot miss them, they are as important to the city's identity as is the Eiffel Tower or Sacre-Coeur. 

"After the Revolution, business boomed when entire libraries were liberated from nobles or clergymen and wound up for sale cheap on the banks of the Seine. In 1891, bouquinistes received permission to permanently attach their boxes to the quaysides. Today, the waiting list to become one of Paris' 250 bouquinistes is eight years. Each bouquiniste is given four boxes, all of a specified size, and rent is paid only for the stone on which the boxes rest (less than €100 per year). The most coveted spots are awarded based on seniority. Maintenance costs, including the required vert wagon paint (the green color of old train cars), are paid by the sellers. With little overhead, prices are usually cheaper than in most shops. Bouquinistes must be open at least four days a week. Wednesdays are best (when school is out), and warm, dry days are golden (notice that every item is wrapped in protective plastic). And yes, they do leave everything inside when they lock up at night; metal bars and padlocks keep things safe."

To read more in French make sure to visit this page, there is also an English language option in the upper right corner. Unfortunately, if you are not fluent in French, you won't be finding the next read for your flight home at the bouquinistes, but you might still enjoy the stroll along the seine, and a gander at this beautifully maintained tradition.

Nouvelle Vague - Dance

I happen to be both, a huge fan of New Wave, the French cinematic movement, and Nouvelle Vague, the French band. Here is a little marriage between the two...just cause it's so effortlessly charming.

Original excerpt from the film, Bande à Part, by Godard



And here is Nouvelle Vague's video

Paris Flea Markets

....And it's 2012. The end of the world is upon us. Or, just the end of another year. Was it worth living? Was is a success or a trial? Was it time well spent? I hear that time is an illusion, so for whatever it's worth, I will start here this year by drawing out a bit of the past. After all, what would we be today, without our heritage? Every city's exploration should include a thorough examination of its markets; from organic produce markets, to black markets. It will show you the city's true face, maybe even a few wrinkles, and hopefully its patrimoine, as the French say - its heritage. There are many different Flea Markets to chose from in Paris, the most notable being the St Ouen Flea , officially called Les Puces de Saint-Ouen. It carries absolutely everything you can dream of; past and present.  There are 2 500 stalls full of antiques, jewelry, paintings, perfume bottles, old and new vintage fashion shops, books and more. it brings in more than 11 million visitor’s a year, and it is located in the north of Paris (metro Clignancourt). 

This market dates back to the Middle Ages, when merchants resold the cast-off, flea infested clothing of aristocrats to peasant folk. Then, Picasso himself was a frequent visitor, perhaps while searching for inspiration. Also, if you have seen Woody Allen's  “Midnight In Paris” you have already gotten a glimpse of its charms, as parts of the movie were filmed there. It is open from Saturday to Monday. This site has amazing tips and insight on the whole ordeal. It is a must stop for all seekers of memorabilia.

You can also find the Vanve Market down south avenue Georges Lafenestre and avenue Marc Sangnier, 75014 Paris. This outdoor market is open until 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Tables along both sides of the sidewalk are full of paintings, jewelry, dishes, furniture, and books. 

And finally, there is also Marche aux Puces de Montreuil, avenue de la Porte de Montreuil, 75020 Paris / 93100 Montreuil-sous-Bois. This market offers mountains of second-hand clothing, car parts, showers and laundry machines, and other random goodness. You'll find little pre-1900's, but there are fun collectibles like branded pastis water jugs. Hours: Sat. - Mon., 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.