Events
Thursday: ILAB Book Fair
Thursday, 26th September: Opening of the 24th ILAB International Antiquarian Book Fair
Back to business: After four days of studying and enjoying modern art, history and bibliophile treasures in Switzerland (including mountaineering and some traditional sports) the 24th ILAB International Antiquarian Book Fair opened its doors to the public at 6 pm. Since 1965, when the first ILAB Antiquarian Book Fair took place in Amsterdam, an international fair is associated with the bi-annual ILAB Congress. In 2012, this ILAB Fair takes place at the Kongresshaus, a wonderful building from the 1940s, next to the Zurich lake and to the famous Baur au Lac, where Thomas Mann lodged during many of his visits. The Kongresshaus is located on the right side of the river Limmat, where the banks and the financial agencies are situated and where numerous distinguished shops invite ladies and gents to spend much money for jewellery, watches and other luxury goods. In the same venue and at the same time, the Zurich Fine Art Fair attracts lots of visitors: two big events for art and rare book lovers.
No wonder that the first hours of the fair were busy and exciting. Visitors from Japan, Australia, China, Russia, the United States and all over Europe filled the hall to see and to buy books, prints, autographs and manuscripts showcased by 65 ILAB dealers.