With every piece of item bearing the ‘at-least-100-years-old’ tag, Rosemary Whelan’s
abode of antiques induces a feeling of revisiting history. The rich mahogany and walnut fixtures create a drama that has the look and feel of a historical movie; as if a character wearing a top hat and a long tail coat would walk through the door or sit on one of those regal chairs and hold court.
Antique furniture specialist Rosemary Whelan shares her passion for 19th century European antique items that have been a witness to the passage of time
For Rosemary, that drama is an everyday affair, as she walks along the hallway adorned with massive pieces of furniture and home accessories – heavy dining tables and upholstered chairs, intricately carved sideboards, large ornate mirrors that stretch entire walls, chest of drawers that have the opulence of history, majestic chaise lounge, plush furnishing… There is whiff of luxury that abounds the two floors of Richwood Antiques showroom in Azaiba.
“All of my furniture… everything, is 19th century,” states Rosemary, who has, through Richwood Antiques, provided a perfect platform for connoisseurs of antique furniture. “Most of it is in its original condition, but clean and beautiful and ready to use. We have mahogany, walnut and oak furniture, which are all of very high quality. A lot of it comes from Ireland, England, London particularly, and Paris. All of the mirrors are original; they are gilded in 24 carat gold – not painted. The quality is exceptional,” she explains.
Business, however, was the last thing on her mind when she arrived in Oman in 2010, with two babies in tow. She was joining her husband here, and was convinced, like most expatriates, that it would be two-year stint. But Oman and its charms changed that equation. “We settled in so well…everything went on right and I decided to bring my business,” she states. An affiliated member of the CINOA (Internationale des Negociants en Oeuvres d’Art), an international association for art and antique experts from around the world, and an active member of The Irish Antique Dealers Association, Rosemary has been in the business, since she started it as an 18-year old.
In 2011, she launched Richwood Antiques with a 10-day exhibition at Bait Zubair Museum; it was a huge success and demonstrated the love for antiques among Omanis who previously had to source such items personally. Based on the response, she decided to run the business as a full time venture. “There was a niche market for us, and it has been consistent and good since. People who are familiar with this kind of furniture appreciate the fact that they can buy it right here in Oman,” says Rosemary, whose expertise on the subject is vast. She has contacts in Europe, particularly in Ireland and London, from where she sources her products.
Although she works on word of mouth, she has an impressive list of clients from Oman and GCC countries, who keep her busy with interesting projects. She also works along with interior architects to identify the needs and requirements of different properties, but is open to walk in customers who are seeking individual pieces to adorn their living spaces. “Everyone is welcome to make an appointment (www.richwoodantiques.com) and buy our pieces,” she adds.
Looking back to the time they first set foot in Oman, Rosemary, who has travelled the world but had never been to Oman until 2010, recalls how easily they settled in and made Oman their home. “We had a lot of Omani friends… That is what made it quite easy and welcoming for us. They were so friendly and so happy to get to know us… I think that is the wonderful thing about this country. It’s lovely,” stresses Rosemary.
The home I grew up in… Is in Dublin, Ireland.
When I was a child I wanted to… Be a nurse.
The moment that changed me forever… The day I met my husband.
My greatest inspiration… My two beautiful children.
My hero… My dad.
I dream of… A better, more peaceful world for my children to grow up in.
My greatest regret… I have no major regrets. I would do it all over again!
If I have time to myself… I go to the gym.
My favourite haunt/holiday destination… I love travel and have many favourites, but right now I have a huge desire to spend a month in Tuscany. I love everything Italian.
My favourite weekend spot in Oman… Any secluded beach for camping. The coastline in Oman is spectacular.
I will not leave my house without… My phone
Things I like about Oman… Its uniqueness – Oman stands out among all Middle East countries for its exceptional beauty; the people are welcoming and friendly.
My success mantra is… Never say never!
In 10 years’ time, I hope to be… As busy and as happy as ever!
