At The Warehouse Antiques & Collectables, our community of dealers is what makes our centre such a special place to explore. This month, we’re shining the spotlight on Jacque Murfit, the eye behind Cabinet 39. Known for her striking collection of Scandinavian jewellery and Mid-Century Modern (MCM) finds, Jacque’s cabinet is a must-visit for design lovers and collectors alike.
From Glasgow to Norfolk: A Collector’s Journey
Jacque’s passion for antiques was sparked in Glasgow, when she purchased her first piece of glass at Norway House — a Goran Warff original she still owns today. That initial spark led to years of collecting, dealing, and developing a reputation for carefully curated MCM glass and, later, distinctive Scandinavian jewellery. Her approach is simple yet effective: “If I like it, possibly someone else will…”
What Exactly Is MCM?
Mid-Century Modern (MCM) design emerged between the 1940s and 1970s and is celebrated for its clean lines, minimalism, and focus on function. In the world of jewellery, that translates into sleek, sculptural pieces often crafted from silver or modernist materials - think abstract forms and a focus on craftsmanship. Jacque has a keen eye for this era and the Nordic designers who shaped it.
A Taste for the Rare and the Beautiful
Among Jacque’s most unforgettable finds are a Marius Hammer plique-à-jour silver salt dish and a rare Weckström Mountain Rill bracelet — both elegant examples of Nordic artistry and both, she admits, a little hard to part with. She’s still on the hunt for another Weckström to this day.
Her current focus? MCM jewellery is hotter than ever, with even lesser-known designers now achieving top-tier prices. Clean, high-quality design is key, she says, and buyers are increasingly drawn to well-executed, timeless pieces.
Jacque’s Top Tips for Buying Antiques:
● Condition is king – Even small flaws can greatly affect value.
● Research makes the difference – Look up makers, hallmarks, and styles.
● Restoration? No thanks – Original condition (with a gentle clean) is best.
● Ask questions – Every item has a story; dealers are usually happy to share it.
The Daily Hunt: Auctions, “Runners” and Routine
Jacque starts her day combing through online auction catalogues, requesting condition reports and earmarking pieces. She also works with a handful of trusted “runners” who source items for her, meaning her stock is always evolving — even if rotating items fortnightly has been trickier in recent years.
Her rule of thumb for pricing? A 50% mark-up from her buying price, allowing her to offer fair, competitive pricing while passing along the benefits of her expert sourcing.
A Few Names to Know
Scandinavian jewellery boasts a rich design heritage. Jacque often features pieces by notable designers such as:
Björn Weckström – Famous for space-inspired designs and collaborations with Lapponia. Marius Hammer – Known for intricate enamel and filigree work, especially in plique-à-jour. Georg Jensen – A household name in Danish silver with timeless appeal.
If you see these names in Cabinet 39, take a closer look — you’re likely holding something special.
The Norfolk Market & Life at The Warehouse
Jacque has observed that Norfolk collectors tend to be more conservative in their tastes. Since COVID, she’s also seen a marked decline in cash use — something many dealers have had to adapt to.
The most challenging part of running a stand? Simply being able to get in and rotate stock regularly due to personal circumstances. But when she can, she loves refreshing the cabinet and seeing how customers respond to the new pieces.
And while she’s tight-lipped about specific stories (“my lips are sealed…”), she admits that seeing the look on a customer’s face when they find that perfect piece is still the most rewarding part of the job.
Why Buy from a Dealer Like Jacque?
In today’s online world, buying antiques from an experienced, reputable dealer offers peace of mind. Jacque personally vets every item, ensuring authenticity, condition, and provenance.
Whether you're just starting a collection or looking for that once-in-a-lifetime showstopper, you can trust that every piece in Cabinet 39 has been chosen with care.
Visit Jacque Murfit at Cabinet 39
Whether you're a lover of clean Scandinavian lines, a Mid-Century design enthusiast, or simply enjoy discovering the unexpected, Cabinet 39 at The Warehouse Antiques & Collectables is not to be missed. Jacque’s collection is a reflection of decades of knowledge, taste and true passion - and you never know what gem you might find next.