Small, often beautifully framed and with an air of mystery, silhouettes are an intriguing field for collectors, and look striking placed together on a wall

Small, beautifully crafted and often surprisingly complex, these decorative boxes were the height of fashion in the 18th century, and represent a fertile field for collectors today

Thimbles represent a compelling slice of social history as well as miniature vehicles for artistic expression – it’s little wonder they hold such enduring appeal for today’s collectors

Collected by royals and rock stars alike, and with prices to suit all budgets, these quirky floral ceramics have an eye-catching appeal that shows no sign of waning

Under-celebrated and misunderstood, this appealing speckled pottery, which was once mass-produced, is surprisingly elusive today

Visiting art galleries and their acclaimed masterpieces is one thing, but the real satisfaction of being an art lover lies in building a collection of your own. Here are some expert tips on how to do just that

Bucolic scenes of courting couples and peasants harvesting hay typify toile de Jouy, but there’s more to this cloth, which graced the wardrobes and interiors of 18th and 19th-century France

We explore some of Italy’s lesser-visited destinations, teeming with historic and cultural attractions, but without the crowds…

Much feted for its food scene, the small Welsh town of Narberth can also be applauded for its vintage and antiques offering, which has blossomed in recent years

Whether stationary or moving at a gentle rumble, vintage trains and trams are a wonderful way to step back in time and embrace your spirit of adventure

Champagne picnics, alliums in bloom and stiletto heels sinking into the lawn can only mean one thing: Glyndebourne’s opera season has begun. Established in 1934, Glyndebourne Festival turns 90 this year, with five operas performed from May to August, and an autumn season in October. Just six kilometres away lies the historic market town of Lewes, on the edge of the South Downs National Park

Once you’ve ambled around Brno’s cobbled squares and admired its castle, cathedral and terracotta-tiled homes, you may be left wondering why so many tourists overlook the Czech Republic’s second-largest city