Business Details
41 Years
experience
Devon's Trusted Antiques Specialists Since 1985
Established for nearly four decades, Mere Antiques has built a distinguished reputation as one of Devon's premier antiques specialists. Our shop in Topsham, operating for 28 years, has been a trusted hub for buying and selling antiques for over 60 years, reflecting our deep-rooted expertise. We pride ourselves on offering an extensive collection of high-quality antiques sourced primarily through private acquisitions, with minimal reliance on auction houses. Our inventory spans diverse categories including antique furniture from the 16th to 20th centuries, lighting, rugs, glassware, and unique folk art pieces. Situated just five minutes from junction 30 of the M5, our premises are easily accessible by road, rail, or bus from Exeter.We maintain strong connections within the antiques trade and provide expert guidance to collectors and enthusiasts worldwide. Our commitment to quality and authenticity ensures clients receive exceptional value and service. With generations of combined experience, we continue to uphold traditional standards while embracing modern accessibility through our online platform. Our team remains dedicated to preserving the legacy of fine antiques for future generations. We welcome inquiries about specific items or general antiques-related questions.
Services
Antique Furniture
Antique Lighting
Antique Rugs
Antique Glassware
Antique Mirrors
Antique Bronzes
Folk Art
Oil Paintings
Decorative Arts
Antique Clocks
Details
- Year established: 1985
Highlights and features
- We have nearly 40 years of experience in the antiques trade
- Our shop has operated continuously for 28 years
- We source 95% of items directly from private collections
- We offer expert guidance on antiques valuation and history
- Our premises are conveniently located near Exeter and M5 junction 30
What people say
Exceptional quality
Expert knowledge
Authentic pieces
Great selection
Professional service
Services
Antique Furniture
We offer an extensive collection of antique furniture spanning from the 16th to 20th centuries. Our inventory includes rare and unique pieces sourced through private collections, ensuring authenticity and historical value. Each item undergoes careful authentication and restoration to maintain its original character while meeting modern standards.
Antique Lighting
Our antique lighting collection features candelabra, chandeliers, and period-specific fixtures from various historical eras. Each piece is carefully restored while preserving its original craftsmanship. We provide expert advice on installation and maintenance to ensure these decorative items function safely in contemporary settings.
Antique Bronzes
Specialising in bronze antiques, we curate sculptures, decorative objects, and functional items from different cultural periods. Our collection includes both European and Asian pieces, with particular expertise in Thai and Indian bronze work. Each item comes with detailed provenance documentation where available.
Oil Paintings
We deal in original oil paintings from the 18th to 19th centuries, including works by notable artists like William Hogarth. Our collection features portraits, landscapes, and genre scenes, all authenticated through expert evaluation. We provide detailed condition reports and provenance information for each artwork.
Decorative Arts
Our decorative arts range includes antique glassware, mirrors, and folk art pieces from various periods. We specialise in items that combine functionality with artistic merit, such as carved wooden boxes and apothecary jars. Each piece is carefully catalogued with historical context and restoration details.
People
Marilyn Reed
Co-Owner
With nearly four decades in the antiques trade, Marilyn Reed brings extensive expertise in identifying and authenticating period pieces. She manages client relations and oversees the curation of our private collection acquisitions.
Bob Reed
Co-Owner
Bob Reed has spent over 40 years developing specialist knowledge in antique valuation and restoration. He handles technical assessments and maintains our relationships with private collectors and trade partners across the UK.
Questions
What types of antiques do you specialise in?
We specialise in furniture, lighting, bronzes, oil paintings, and decorative arts from the 16th to 20th centuries, with particular expertise in European and Asian pieces.
Can I purchase items online?
Yes, we list our current inventory online with detailed descriptions and photographs. We provide secure payment options and international shipping arrangements.
Do you offer authentication services?
While we don't provide formal authentication certificates, our 40 years of experience allow us to offer expert provenance assessments for all items we sell.
What are your opening hours?
We're open Monday to Friday 10am-5pm, Saturday 10am-4:30pm. Appointments outside these hours can be arranged by prior arrangement.
Do you accept international shipments?
Yes, we regularly arrange international shipping through trusted couriers, ensuring proper insurance and documentation for all overseas transactions.
