Eleanor Harrington in her shop at Harleston Cornucopia
In the heart of Harleston Cornucopia, nestled among the diverse collection of vintage shops, you'll find Eleanor's Antiques—a treasure trove of exquisite Victorian and Edwardian pieces that transport visitors to a bygone era of elegance and craftsmanship. This month, we're delighted to shine our vendor spotlight on Eleanor Harrington, the passionate collector and knowledgeable proprietor behind this beloved shop.
The Woman Behind the Collection
Eleanor's journey into the world of antiques began over thirty years ago when she inherited a Victorian writing desk from her grandmother. "That desk sparked something in me," Eleanor recalls with a warm smile. "I became fascinated with the stories behind these objects—who made them, who used them, and how they survived through the decades to reach us today."
With a background in art history and a career in museum curation, Eleanor brings a wealth of knowledge to her collection. After retiring from her position at the Norfolk Museum Service in 2010, she decided to turn her lifelong passion into a second career, opening Eleanor's Antiques as one of the founding vendors when Harleston Cornucopia was established.
"I don't just sell antiques; I find new homes for pieces of history. Each item in my shop has a story, and I'm just a temporary custodian helping these treasures find their next chapter." — Eleanor Harrington
A Curated Collection
What sets Eleanor's Antiques apart is the carefully curated nature of the collection. Unlike some antique dealers who cast a wide net, Eleanor specializes specifically in high-quality Victorian and Edwardian furniture, decorative items, and accessories.
Her shop is arranged like a series of vignettes from a grand home of the period—a writing corner with an inlaid desk and leather-bound books, a dressing table adorned with silver-backed brushes and crystal perfume bottles, a dining display featuring fine bone china and ornate silverware.
Among the most notable pieces currently in her collection are:
- A mahogany breakfront bookcase from 1870 with original glass and brass gallery
- A collection of Victorian mourning jewelry, including jet brooches and hair lockets
- A complete set of Edwardian silver-plated fish knives and forks in their original presentation box
- Several oil paintings of the Norfolk countryside by local Victorian artists
- A rare set of leather-bound first editions of Charles Dickens novels
Victorian mahogany writing desk, circa 1860
Collection of Victorian mourning jewelry
A Wealth of Knowledge
What truly distinguishes Eleanor's Antiques is not just the quality of the items but the depth of knowledge that comes with them. Eleanor is renowned among regular visitors for her ability to provide detailed information about each piece in her collection.
"I research everything thoroughly," she explains. "I want to know when it was made, by whom if possible, what materials were used, and any interesting historical context. That's what transforms an old object into a meaningful antique."
This commitment to research and authentication has earned Eleanor a reputation as one of the most trusted antique dealers in the region. Collectors and interior designers often seek her expertise when looking for specific period pieces or verifying the authenticity of their own finds.
Sharing Her Passion
Beyond selling antiques, Eleanor is passionate about education. She regularly hosts informal talks at Harleston Cornucopia on topics such as "Understanding Victorian Furniture Styles" and "The Language of Mourning Jewelry." These sessions have become popular events, drawing both serious collectors and those simply curious about historical objects.
She also works closely with our museum section, occasionally loaning items for special exhibitions and providing valuable insights for our historical displays.
Eleanor hosting one of her popular talks on Victorian antiques
The Joy of Discovery
When asked about her favorite aspect of running Eleanor's Antiques, she doesn't hesitate: "It's the moment when someone connects with a piece—when they understand its history and craftsmanship and fall in love with it. That's when I know an antique has found its new home."
Eleanor is particularly passionate about helping new collectors develop their eye and knowledge. "I love when young people show interest in antiques. There's a growing appreciation for the quality and sustainability of these pieces compared to modern disposable furniture."
Her approach to pricing reflects this inclusive philosophy. While her collection includes some investment-grade pieces, Eleanor also makes a point of stocking more accessible items to help new collectors begin their journey.
Finding New Treasures
Eleanor's inventory is constantly evolving as she sources new items through her extensive network of contacts, auction houses, and estate sales. She travels throughout East Anglia and occasionally further afield in search of exceptional pieces that meet her exacting standards.
"I'm very selective," she admits. "I probably reject twenty items for every one I bring into the shop. Condition, authenticity, and aesthetic appeal all have to align."
This selective approach means that regular visitors to Eleanor's Antiques are always likely to discover something new and remarkable. "I encourage people to visit often," she says. "The best pieces tend to find homes quickly."
Visit Eleanor's Antiques
You can find Eleanor's Antiques in Unit 2 on the Ground Floor of Harleston Cornucopia. Eleanor is typically present in her shop Thursday through Saturday from 10am to 4pm, though the shop is open during all regular Cornucopia hours.
Whether you're a serious collector of Victorian and Edwardian antiques or simply appreciate the craftsmanship and beauty of these historical pieces, a visit to Eleanor's Antiques promises to be both educational and inspiring.
For specific inquiries about items in Eleanor's collection, you can contact her directly at [email protected] or through our main contact page.