Imported Treasures

From the outside of this warehouse, there isn’t a clue of the old world treasures hidden inside, but trust me, they are there.

Restored antiques from Russia and the Baltic states of Lithuania and Latvia crowd the floor at European Antique Imports, and each carries a wholesale price.

This warehouse is jammed full of the latest shipments of hutches, armoires, dressers and all manner of tables, selected by owner Ken Petersen on his numerous buying trips. Some unusual pieces may be of interest to those looking for a focal point for a room.

A bed that has been made into a bench should catch your eye, and at $275 it’s a fairly good buy. The entertainment centers--and there are many--were armoires at one time and most are very old.

One, which according to Petersen is 300 years old, was priced at $1,100 and would fit into any style decor, but would particularly complement the country look.

On Robertson Boulevard this piece would probably be tagged at $2,500 or more. Petersen buys at farms in Russia and in the Baltic states, then has the pieces restored at his factories in Lithuania and Latvia before shipping them to Los Angeles.

Since he opened this business in 1989, he has made 26 journeys to acquire inventory. A bookcase from Lithuania, to which Petersen has added adjustable shelves, was selling for $695, and a lovely and unusual dresser was priced at $400. These items are made of pine, although some ash and birch pieces were on the floor.

For someone looking to find an unusual accessory, a 19th-century grain scale in pine, with all the weights, seemed a very good buy at $250.

Hours here are usually 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday, but it’s a good idea to call first. Parking is in the rear.

European Antique Imports, 5804 W. Adams St., Los Angeles. (213) 930-1400. Call in advance. No credit cards.

*

WEEKEND SUPER SALE: Quality sheets and towels are being offered at 50% to 70% off through April at a going-out-of-business sale at Jimmy’s. There are also the same healthy reductions on ice buckets, pillows and some terrific bathroom accessories. Jimmy’s, 501 N. Robertson Blvd., Los Angeles. (310) 858-6500.