As an avid collector of a variety of antiques and collectibles for the last 30 years, Bob Brooke knows what he’s writing about. Beginning with one modest English writing box, he’s developed collections of not only writing boxes, but also of Satsuma-style ware, Staffordshire ware, toy trains, Mexican kitchen ware, and Victorian furniture. Friends often say visiting Brooke’s house is like visiting a museum.

Besides writing about antiques, specializing in furniture, Brooke has also sold at flea markets and worked in an antique shop, so he knows the business side, too. In the last 15 years, he’s reviewed some of the top antique shows in the Mid-Atlantic region and has many contacts in the antiques business.

Brooke’s antique interest has taken him to England many times, where he’s covered the prestigious Chelsea Antique Show in London. He’s also gathered items for his collections, as well as done research for his feature articles in Ireland, Germany, and France.

Holding an M.F.A. in Fine Arts, Brooke knows his periods from ancient civilizations to Art Deco. He’s written for many antiques and consumer publications, including 
British Heritage, AntiqueWeek, The American Antiquities Journal, Southeastern Antiquing and Collecting Magazine, OldandSold.com, GeorgiaAntiques.com,

He's also authored two books on antiques from Globe Pequot Press: How to Start a Home-Based Antiques Business and How to Recognize and Refinish Antiques for Pleasure and Profit. Both are on sale at your favorite bookstore or through Amazon.com.

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