Silvia Zaimova and Her Passion for Antiques

Published in Unique Estates Life Spring Issue 2025

Law keeps her grounded and helps her in many situations. But what truly defines Silvia Zaimova’s life path and interests is her passion for art, particularly antique objects. Every new space she creates and fills with intriguing artifacts from the past opens new horizons and offers a chance to immerse herself in an era, style, and history. In 2016, she founded the gallery space Marché Antique, where magnificent antique furniture, objects, and works of art are still displayed and offered today.

“What do you see in an antique object that the public often cannot perceive?”

Silvia says that art objects, like most antiques, affect each person differently due to their uniqueness and rarity. Visitors who seek and appreciate antique finds have the instinct to place an item in their interior. What she sees is an opportunity for a new adventure in exploring and restoring the piece, especially finding its new owner. She has noticed that even in the most minimalistic contemporary homes, there is always the right place for a piece of furniture, accessory, or painting that transports us to past eras and creates unexpected connections across time and space.

“What should we know when searching for antiques?”

In Bulgaria, there is not only a market but also highly skilled restorers who can care for any type of object. Due to their specificity and uniqueness, the local market may not satisfy every demand. This is where antique dealers come in, able to locate what you are looking for among the abundance of European and other distant markets. When drawn to a specific item, it is important to examine the craftsmanship, quality of materials, and repairability if damaged, as well as understand the care needed to preserve its appearance and value.

How do the items we live with reflect our character and lifestyle?

Everything around us shows who we are and what excites us. The home is a true mirror of our soul. Antique accents reflect emotionality and the pursuit of comfort rather than practicality, as these objects require attention and care.

“How do you expand the collection of beautiful old objects in the gallery?”

Silvia is a devoted fan of French antiques, which dominate her spaces. This passion inspires frequent trips to France in search of new finds. She enjoys how these pieces complement each other when united by eye and taste. Each item is acquired with full personal appreciation – she would never offer someone an object she does not love herself. She participates in auctions or contacts the owners of sought-after pieces directly. Sometimes, the items even seem to find her.

“What do your clients usually look for, and how do you advise them?”

Most clients know what they want, and she does her best to meet their expectations. Finding the desired piece may take time, but the search itself is the greatest pleasure. Among the most sought-after items are mirrors in their rich variety, as well as individual chairs and small console tables that can always be incorporated into a home and enhance its character.

“Do you have a favorite story connected to a piece?”

Every item in the gallery has its story and a place in her heart. For example, she once discovered an exceptional palanquin created and painted for a wedding ceremony two centuries ago, intact with silk upholstery and original glass doors – a stunning museum-quality piece. It appeared in a private auction for a family estate. During the online bidding, her electricity went out at the exact moment she placed a bid. Adrenaline surged. When power returned, she wasn’t sure if she had won. Hours later, a lady called to inform her that she was the last bidder for one of the most special items and awaited her confirmation – and now it stands before you.

“Which of these items would you never part with?”

Before diving deeply into antique art, she found it nearly impossible to part with beloved possessions. Over time, she learned that each object has a life long before her and that her home is just a step in its journey. Now, no matter how captivated she is by a piece, she is ready to pass it on to the next admirer, opening space in her home and soul for new discoveries.