Philippe Vadée, a former student of the Professional Master in Art Market, Ancient Art specialization, started his own business at the end of his one-year ancient art program.
He looks back on his path at IESA, his career change, and the start of his career as a business owner.
What happened after IESA arts&culture? Can you tell us about your career path?
After the program I followed at IESA and the end of the practical internship, I created the company (SASU) "Au Phil du Temps" at the end of 2017. In line with the full-scale project built during my training.
Was this a project you had in mind before joining your program?
Yes, I knew that the end of my career would require a professional retraining and I made this choice in advance.
Can you describe what your business involves? Is it a promising sector?
A dealer’s activity: antiques, collectibles, decorative objects, vintage…
As in many others, nothing is easy in this sector…
A few leads I am following:
- buy well
- buy the products you love (you are a better seller)
- sell the right product in the right place
- specialize, become an expert
- be reliable, build customer loyalty
Can you describe the acquisition of a piece that you were happy to be able to offer for sale?
A 1900 Daum Nancy goblet vase on a pedestal, bought at the Crédit Municipal, a fine piece that went to England and sold well at a markup of 2 (sold for double the purchase price).
How do you see your business developing in the coming months and years?
For this year 2018, the start-up year, the goal is to cover the costs incurred and, if possible, to make a small profit. Perhaps later to move upmarket in order to increase the margin per item and therefore the company’s overall result. In the long run, it will be a complementary activity to my retirement.