Orion’s Closing Sale

Anyone who has driven through what will be called “Lower Oak Lawn” (I couldn’t agree with you more, Peggy—what an awful new name) has noticed the large “Retirement Sale” banner in front of Orion Antique Importers. It’s true: after 33 years in the business, owners David and Shelley Stevens have decided to retreat to retirement, and are offering their antiques at a discount to the masses. You’ll see bargain prices listed on bright orange tags—any leftovers will be shipped to auction. Art director Andrea Tomek and I spotted European crystal chandeliers (one with hand-blown Venetian glass), a set of four Italian armchairs with embroidered fabric ($16,000 for the set), and an impressive—and already sold—gold and china goddess sculpture ($12,500). I’d still have to sell my car for most pieces, but for antique collectors, there are deals to be had.