Meet Colin and Jean Greenway of Greenway Antiques
Colin and Jean Greenway run Greenway Antiques selling 17th to mid-20th century furniture and related items, alongside specialising in fireplaces. Member of The Cotswold Art and Antique Dealers’ Association, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary, they are featured in CADA’s online exhibition. We caught up with Colin for a chat about their business.
Why did you become an Antiques Dealer?
I have always had a passion for history and as a child loved to visit museums. I was told recently that I could always be found with my head in an antiques reference book!
After meeting Jean in 1967 we discovered we had the same interest. In fact, one of our first dates was to the Oxford Antiques Fair. We began dealing in a small way out of stables that we rented in the town of Charlbury. In 1975, we went on to lease a shop in Corn Street Witney from Joy and Steven Jarrett (Witney Antiques). They gave us great encouragement and became lifelong friends.
Shortly afterwards we bought our present premises in the same street and have enjoyed many years not only trading but meeting some amazing dealers, collectors and homemakers from all over the world, many of these becoming firm friends.
What do you love about the Cotswolds?
We are fortunate to live and deal in one of the most beautiful and historical areas of the country. Also where else would you find such a variety of antique shops outside of London other than here in the Cotswolds.
Unlikely passion that consumes you?
I play the guitar and love going out performing – music is my other passion – I’m always quoting lines from Bob Dylan as anyone who knows me will tell you.
What would you suggest to someone wanting to start collecting?
In order to be a true collector you have to have the desire to buy the best you can afford. Research as much as you can plus talk to a dealer in your chosen field; after all dealers love to talk and will willingly share their knowledge.
Book you are currently reading?
English Churchyard Memorials by Frederick Burgess – although The Chronicles of Bob Dylan are never far away.