Interview with Rodolfo Garcia, a well-known antique dealer from Rio de Janeiro and organizer of antique fairs.

Rodolfo, could you tell us about your history with the world of antiquities?

I've always had an affinity for the art world. Museums, exhibitions, and books have always been part of my journey. Professionally, in 1977, I began working as an organizer of antique and art gallery exhibitions (salons), until 1985, at the Copacabana Palace in Rio and at MASP in São Paulo.

How does the antiques market behave in Brazil?

The glamour of contemporary art has somewhat diminished interest in antiques. In fact, given its speed and momentum, I think that contemporary art will soon cool down and follow a more selective and less hysterical rhythm. Unintentionally, it creates enormous opportunities for fraud – much greater than with antique works – and at some point, this will be felt, causing the market to calm down naturally. The success of ArtRio and SPArte, and the profusion of auctions, proves that there is no shortage of market for investment in art.

How did the idea of ​​organizing fairs, such as the art/collection fair planned for 2015 or 2016 at the Jockey Club, come about?

I've noticed that the antiques market continues to be booming worldwide. But in Brazil, it's inexplicably passive, lacking any proactive approach. Auctions are booming and expanding (and rightfully so), but shops and offices stand by without any proactive intervention.

Coincidentally, Rio, celebrating its 450th anniversary in 2015, having been the seat of two imperial periods and 70 years as the capital of the Republic, would make the city breathe art and history all year round. The Jockey Club is a fitting location, being one of Rio's most traditional venues (dating from 1928), and possessing halls suitable for this purpose.

How do historical documents fit into the world of antiquities?

For now, they are not yet arousing the interest they deserve. Computerization, with all the benefits it generates, also causes irreparable damage. Regarding the texts, it has simply buried the manuscripts, the dedications, the correspondence, and even the personality of the authors through the identification of their handwriting. I find this an immense loss. When this lack is noticed, despite some minimal and occasional dissemination at auctions, they will tend towards a promising appreciation. For the older ones, of course, a great future awaits.

What do you think of the Glórias collection and its website?

I'm not very familiar with the Glórias collection, but the website is beautiful and elegantly suited to the theme. It needs to showcase more of its collection (or part of it).

Any tips for our team?

To further publicize the exclusivity of this activity, especially in newspapers, magazines, and TV channels in Rio and São Paulo. Due to its novelty, it will have space in their news coverage.

This item is brought to you by the Glórias collection, specialists in rare autograph documents . We evaluate, buy, and sell letters, manuscripts, books with dedications or drawings by great historical figures. Click here to learn more.