The Kirker Gift List

The BADA is delighted to introduce the "Kirker Gift List", a curated selection of exceptional pieces from BADA members, handpicked by Kirker Holidays. Each object has been chosen for its unique connection to Kirker's holiday destinations, highlighting the expertise of Kirker tour guides.

 

 

 

 

 

 


 



Petek Philippe1. 

Gentleman’s 18k Patek Philippe, 1953

From Timewise Vintage Watches

In partnership with New Scientist magazine Kirker has launched a range of science-led itineraries, following themes from psychology and medicine to astronomy and particle physics. For those with even a passing interest in physics, Switzerland is a key destination for a number of reasons. On the popular tour to Geneva & CERN, participants discover the world’s greatest physics laboratory, accompanied by particle physicist Darren Price. However, while the famous Large Hadron Collider is a highlight, a visit to the Patek Philippe Museum is equalling alluring for many, revealing the traditional craft of watchmaking in the company of an expert horologist. 


For more information: https://www.kirkerholidays.com/holidays/geneva-and-cern/
 


HJ chair2. 

A “Musicale” chair by Atelier Fornasetti.

Italy, 1989.

From Holly Johnson Antiques

This unique and eye-catching chair instantly captures the style of Milanese designer Piero Fornasetti, with a playful and distinctive aesthetic. Milan is inextricably linked with design, style and music, and this item encapsulates all of this in one. Any visit to the city should include an evening at the temple of Italian opera, La Scala, and the Kirker Concierge can secure the best seats for any performance as part of a short break to Milan – not forgetting a table for a delicious pre- or post-opera supper at a local restaurant. 

For more information: https://www.kirkerholidays.com/holidays/milan-opera/ 
 


Holiday Ypres

3. 

Ypres

Gilbert Joseph Holiday (1879-1937).

October 1917.

Watercolour and chalks.
signed 'Gilbert Holiday' (lower left), inscribed and dated 'YPRES. OCT. 1917.' (lower right).
23 x 17½ in. (58.7 x 44.8 cm).
37 x 25.75 in. (78 x 65. 5) framed.

From Rountree Tryon Galleries

Military historian Hugh Macdonald-Buchanan has long had an interest in the battlefields of The Western Front and has led many tours there for clients from all over the world. Hugh is especially interested in interpreting the course of battlefield action in relation to the local landscape, and in how a modern industrial warfare evolved between 1914 and 1918. He will accompany Kirker clients to the principal battlefields of the British Expeditionary Force in spring 2025, starting in the notorious Ypres Salient which saw intense fighting throughout the war, especially at Paschendaele. including the Somme, Arras, Cambrai and the point of the final breakthrough in 1918 where the Allies began their journey to victory. 


For more information: https://www.kirkerholidays.com/holidays/the-western-front/ 

 


Morgan

4. 

A View on the Italian Lakes.

Alfred Morgan (FL1862-1904).
Watercolour.
Signed with monogram.
Dimensions: 19 3/4 x 13 1/8 inches.

From The Canon Gallery

This evocative view of the Italian Lakes is a scene which one can still see today, remarkably unchanged. The mountains sloping down to gently-rippling mirror-like water, give the region a timeless allure that has attracted artists for generations – and still does. The lakes stretch from Garda in the east to Como and Maggiore in the west, the latter crossing the Swiss border. While it is impossible to tell exactly where this was painted, it is likely Lake Maggiore or the charming and less-visited Lake Orta: the flags on the boats on the foreground include what appears to be a flag of Savoy, the kingdom which ruled over Piedmont (including Lake Orta and much of Lake Maggiore) for much of its history. 

For more information: https://www.kirkerholidays.com/destinations/europe/italy/lake-orta/ 


 



Wine Label

5. 

George IV Baying Foxes Wine Label by Rawlings & Summers

London, 1827

From Mary Cooke Antiques Ltd

The British have always had a great affection for the Atlantic island of Madeira, where the eponymous fortified wine originates. This is still a destination which has a unique allure – with year-round subtropical weather providing perfect conditions for gardeners. Casa Velha is a luxurious country house hotel set in landscaped, subtropical gardens in the hills to the east of Funchal. Access to the famous Blandy’s garden surrounding their private residence is a rare treat for garden enthusiasts and Kirker clients will also enjoy a Vintage Madeira tour & tasting at the Blandy’s Wine Lodge. 

For more information: https://www.kirkerholidays.com/hotel/casa-velha-do-palheiro/ 
 


 

Olde Time

6. 

French Directoire Marble Pillar Mantel Clock.

Circa 1795

From Olde Time

Made during that brief tenure of the French First Republic, which lasted a mere four years before Napoleon overthrew it, this clock is a fascinating snapshot of a moment in time, with its particularly distinctive little Napoleon figure above the face. Hugh Macdonald-Buchanan traces the story of the Rise & fall of Napoleon with two back-to-back tours in April 2025. Join him for The French Revolution, a four-night holiday in Paris, which tells the story of Napoleon’s rise, through international conflict that ravaged Europe and imposed an Empire that stretched from the Atlantic to the Russian frontier.


For more information: https://www.kirkerholidays.com/holidays/the-french-revolution/ 

 

 

 

 


 

Loveday Antiques

7. 

17th Century Spanish Walnut Vargueno Desk on Stand

Spain, Salamanca circa 1600-1630

From Loveday Antiques Ltd

This exquisite piece of furniture is a remarkable and uniquely Spanish item, which is gloriously opulent and redolent of the Spanish ‘Golden Age’, when the riches of the New World were filling the coffers. Made in Salamanca, it is a wonderful reason to consider visiting this exceptionally beautiful city in Castille. Salamanca was a great beneficiary of New World riches, and its two cathedrals are spectacular. It also has one of the country’s finest squares in the Plaza Mayor, exceptional tapas and wines, and the ‘best’ Castilian Spanish for keen language learners. The Rector is a charming Kirker hotel within walking distance of the old town centre.

For more information: https://www.kirkerholidays.com/hotel/rector/ 
 


Anita Gray
8. 

Dutch Delft Jar, Early 18th Century

From Anita Gray

Delft porcelain made this small Dutch town famous throughout the world, and today visitors can still discover the Royal Delft factory. It is also the hometown of Dutch ‘Golden Age’ artist Johannes Vermer, whose masterpiece ‘The Girl with the Pearl Earring’ is the pride of the nearby Mauritshuis Museum in The Hague. A short break to The Hague, with a day spent in Delft and a day at the Mauritshuis, as well as perhaps a visit to the excellent MS Escher Museum, is a wonderful experience for any curious discerning traveller. 

For more information about short breaks to The Hague: https://www.kirkerholidays.com/destinations/europe/netherlands/the-hague/

 

 

 


David Messum Fine Art

9. 

The Harbour, St. Tropez, 1925.

Wilfrid Gabriel De Glehn RA NEAC 1870–1951.

oil on canvas 55 x 71 cms

From David Messum Fine Art

After the First World War, Wilfred de Glehn spent summers in Cornwall and winters on the French Riviera, where he would have joined an exclusive milieu during the ‘roaring’ 1920s. The unique light of the coastline has never ceased to enthral artists – painters in particular – and he spent much of the decade here, painting scenes including this charming view of St Tropez. While St Tropez is not the sleepy fishing village it was a century ago, the Jazz Age ambience can still be imagined along the coats in Juan-Les-Pins, where F. Scott Fitzgerald’s Art Deco villa (perhaps known to Wilfred) is now a charming and stylish hotel. 

For more information:  https://www.kirkerholidays.com/hotel/belles-rives/ 
 


3details

10. 

Turquoise slab vase by Marcello Fantoni Italy

Signed to the base Fantoni. and dated 1960.

From 3Details Ltd

If Italian art and design is the best in the world, Florence is the absolute epicentre, the birthplace of the Renaissance and continually innovating through leatherwork, sculpture, and fashion. From the frescoes of Giotto to the masters Botticelli and Michelangelo, and the designers such as Ferragamo, Gucci, Pucci and Cavalli. This piece is a great example of the evolution of Florentine art and design in the period known as La Dolce Vita… and who doesn’t want to recapture a slice of this era with a few days in the artistic capital of the world. 

For more information about short breaks to Florence: https://www.kirkerholidays.com/destinations/europe/italy/florence/ 

 

 


Benton Fine Art

11.

Townscape oil painting of Bruges by Jacques François Carabain

Market Day, Bruges
Oil on canvas, signed & dated (18)58

From Benton Fine Art

One of Europe’s best preserved mediaeval cityscapes, Bruges remains the ‘Venice of the North’ with its winding canals and elegant architecture. The scene depicted here is one that would have been familiar to locals two centuries earlier and you can almost picture it still, the best part of two centuries later. With Eurostar connections making it a hassle-free short break destination, Bruges is particularly appealing in the winter months when there are fewer visitors and atmospheric festive markets.

For more information about short breaks to Bruges: https://www.kirkerholidays.com/destinations/europe/belgium/bruges/

 


William Walter Antiques Ltd

12. 

Antique Victorian Silver Magnum Decanter Coaster

By Royal Goldsmith Robert Garrard

London,1861

From William Walter Antiques Ltd

As Winston Churchill once remarked, “A magnum is the perfect size for two gentlemen over lunch, especially if one isn't drinking.” Churchill famously enjoyed champagne so much that we got through an average of two bottles a day. Whether you aspire to follow in his footsteps or not, joining a Kirker Wine Tour is the perfect way to enjoy not only guaranteed magnums, but also the chance to meet some of Europe’s finest winemakers in person, accompanied by convivial and highly-regarded wine experts Jonathan Ray and Tim Clarke. 

For more information about Kirker Wine Tours: https://www.kirkerholidays.com/inspiration/wine-holidays/
 


Isaac and Ede

13. 

A General View of the City of Constantinople.

Bowles and Carver.

17 x 11 inches.

From Isaac and Ede

This vista, though much-changed, is unmistakeably Istanbul. Located on the Bosphorus where Europe meets Asia, Istanbul is an intense, almost overwhelming experience. The skyline is spectacular; vivid colours and smells, and unfamiliar sounds assail you at every turn. The Blue Mosque and Haghia Sophia – and the Topkapi Palace – are staggering in their size and opulence. Lose yourself in the intoxicating markets and bazaars. The Kirker Guide Notes will lead you to some very special restaurants.

For more information on short breaks and Cultural Tours to Istanbul: https://www.kirkerholidays.com/destinations/europe/turkey/istanbul/ 

 


Wartski Ltd

14.

An Antique Gold and Intaglio Bracelet by Castellani.

Rome, circa 1870.

From Wartski Ltd

Something about the style of this bracelet is distinctively Roman, and it would look perfect on the wrist of a stylish local perusing the shops of the Via Veneto. Located halfway up this famous avenue, the Regina Hotel is one of the most stylish and fashionable hotels in Rome and combines classical architecture and Art Deco furnishings with some wonderful designer elements – it should appeal to both the older and younger generations. It is a 15-minute walk to many of the city’s most popular site and the restaurant serves modern Mediterranean cuisine and is highly regarded.

For more information: https://www.kirkerholidays.com/hotel/baglioni-hotel-regina/ 

 

 

 

 


Karen Taylor Fine Art

15.

Alicante on the coast of Valencia, Spain.

E. Ellis or A.A. Ellis (fl. 1850-75).

Two, each inscribed verso: Alicante on the coast of Valencia, watercolour over pencil on card, with the original wash line border.

Each 11.2 x 17.4 cm; 4 3/8 x 6 7/8 inches (image size).

From Karen Taylor Fine Art

The Valencia Coast which attracted the Ellises is still a wonderful and, in places, very unspoiled. Although much of the Costa Blanca has been developed over the century and a half since their visit, there are still charming whitewashed villages such as Jávea and the delightful town of Denia, midway between Valencia and Alicante. The old fishermen’s quarter has preserved its delightful cobbled streets and whitewashed buildings and you’ll find excellent fish restaurants, a modern yacht marina and some wonderful beaches.

For more information: https://www.kirkerholidays.com/destinations/europe/spain/valencia-coast/ 

 


Robert Young Antiques

16.

Original Fairground Carousel Pig.

Hand Carved and Painted Wood and Various Media.
French, circa 1890.  Attributed to Gustave Bayol, Angers, France 1858-1931.

From Robert Young Antiques

This charming carousel pig is evocative of French summer holidays in cities such as Montpellier, where the Place de al Comedie still has a classic carousel. One of the most elegant squares in France, this is the perfect place to enjoy an aperitif or a morning café au lait, whether or not you are tempted by the carousel. 

For more information: https://www.kirkerholidays.com/destinations/europe/france/montpellier/ 

 


Solo Antiques

17.

Art Deco bronze figure Femme a la Panthere - Albert Poncin

French circa 1930.

From Solo Antiques

Parisian Art Deco of the interwar period has a timeless quality, and this particular piece by the master Albert Poncin brings to mind the ‘panther of love’, Sarah Bernhardt. Over a career spanning six decades, Sarah became the most famous actress of her age, and an icon of Parisian culture and theatre. Today, the Hotel Castille on Rue Cambon is a wonderful base from which to relive the Belle Epoque. It has interiors inspired by Coco Chanel whose first atelier, Maison Chanel is located next door, and the stylish rooms in the Rivoli wing are decorated in a classic French style from the 1930s. The prestigious Rue St. Honoré, the Place Vendôme and the Tuileries Gardens are on your doorstep.

For more information: https://www.kirkerholidays.com/hotel/castille/

 


Daniel Crouch Rare Books

18.

Culinary map of Italy

Rome, 1931

From Daniel Crouch Rare Books Ltd

This attractive Art Deco map is a wonderful expression of the extraordinary diversity of Italian cuisine, and the enormously varied and fiercely distinct regional specialities found throughout the peninsula. It reads like a tantalising menu: risotto, gorgonzola,tartufi, biscottio, bistecca, bagna cauda, never mind the wine list: Barolo, Chianti, Soave, Marsala, Vin Santo… Food and wine have always drawn travellers to Italy, and there is no better way to appreciate the country’s finest produce and best restaurants than in the company of expert Italian chef Valentina Harris, who leads a number of special Kirker tours to Italy focusing on regions from Sicily to Bologna and Milan. 

For more information about culinary tours with valentina Harris: https://www.kirkerholidays.com/about/kirker-tour-leaders/valentina-harris/ 
 

 

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