Atelier La Main d'Or: antiques and craftsmanship
As its name suggests, Atelier La Main d'Or puts craftsmanship at the heart of what it does. Founded in 1984 by Pierre Harcos, trained at the École Boulle, it combines the restoration of antique furniture, paintings and gilded wood, framing and the sale of antiques. An address for lovers of fine pieces and know-how, in Nancy.
A workshop before it's a shop
The word "atelier" in the name isn't decorative: it points to a real relationship with material, where the hand and know-how come first. Set up in 1984 by Pierre Harcos, a cabinetmaker trained at the École Boulle, the address draws on decades of experience in restoration. That craftsman's culture sets it apart from an ordinary shop: here, things are repaired, restored, given a longer life, as much as they're offered for sale. It's a place where the trade shows.
Restoration and framing
The workshop restores antique furniture, but also paintings, whether old or modern, and gilded wood, a delicate task calling for patience and precision. To that it adds framing, with a wide choice of frames in period or contemporary style. This all-round expertise makes the address a valuable contact for anyone with a piece to bring back to its best. Even without a project, watching these rare trades gives a concrete sense of how everyday heritage is preserved.
Antiques and art objects for sale
Alongside restoration, the workshop offers selected antiques and art objects, as well as period or style frames. So you also come to browse, to look, and sometimes to be tempted by a find whose story you'll hear, explained by a professional. In a city marked by Art Nouveau and decorative arts, this kind of address naturally extends a traveller's curiosity, between heritage and objects that endure through time.
Planning your visit in Nancy
The workshop is on Rue Jeanne d'Arc, a little away from Nancy's tourist core, in a district rich in Art Nouveau buildings. As is often the case with antiques dealers and craftsmen, the hours are limited: it's best to check them, or even give notice of your visit, before setting out. Take time to chat on site: these addresses live through the words and passion of those who run them, and you often learn more than you expected.
Infos pratiques
Questions fréquentes
Does Atelier La Main d'Or do restoration?
Yes, it's the heart of the business: restoration of antique furniture, of old and modern paintings and of gilded wood, as well as framing. It also offers antiques for sale.
Can I go without intending to buy?
Yes, the pleasure of looking and chatting is part of the experience at a craftsman-antiques dealer. Just check the fairly limited hours before heading over.
Does the workshop offer framing?
Yes, with a wide choice of frames in period or contemporary style, in addition to selling art objects. Handy if you're bringing back a print or an artwork from your trip.
Where is the workshop in Nancy?
On Rue Jeanne d'Arc, a little away from Nancy's tourist core, in a district rich in Art Nouveau buildings. Check the hours before heading over.
