The annual art and antiques fair in Maastricht is arguably the grandest event of its kind in the world. Mixing ancient relics, coveted old master works, precious antiques, and prime examples of modern art and design in a stylishly designed hall — overflowing with colorful displays of roses and tulips — TEFAF Maastricht has no rivals.
The 2010 show, which continues through March 21, features 263 exhibitors from 17 countries and boasts an endless array of masterpieces, including Botticelli’s magnificent Madonna and Child with the Infant Saint John, Danish designer Poul Henningsen’s surreal interpretation of a grand piano, Damien Hirst’s troubling split-pig in two shifting tanks of formaldehyde, and Gilbert Stuart’s iconic Portrait of George Washington, which was the basis for his image on the dollar bill. With so many treasures on view, it’s no wonder that private jets dominate the runways of the Maastricht airport on opening day and more than 60,000 visitors animate the aisles during the run of the show.