Antiquarenbeurs Mechelen

The 34th International Antiquarian Book Fair Mechelen opens soon!

ANTIQUARIAN BOOK FAIR IN MECHELEN / Fair for Rare Books and Prints

Once again, a remarkable Book and Print Fair in Mechelen: a paradise for lovers and collectors.

The annual Antiquarian Book and Print Fair in Mechelen is about to celebrate its 34th edition. From 5 to 7 December, Mechelen will become the epicentre of an enchanting world of old and rare books, bibliophile editions, prints and engravings. This national and international fair attracts participants from Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, France and the United Kingdom.

During this three-day event, book lovers and collectors can indulge themselves in an abundance of literary treasures. From rare manuscripts to first editions, art books and refined engravings, the fair offers an unrivalled opportunity to browse, explore and, of course, to buy.

“We are delighted to once again provide a platform where book lovers come together,” says the organiser of the Book and Print Fair. “Mechelen is the ideal location for this event, with its rich history and cultural significance. Visitors can not only enjoy the diverse selection of books and prints, but also explore the city’s charming atmosphere.”

After a day filled with literary treasures, visitors can enjoy the unique atmosphere and culinary highlights that Mechelen has to offer. The Antiquarian Book and Print Fair in Mechelen is a unique opportunity to meet fellow enthusiasts and to expand your collection with numerous examples: old and rare books – prints, atlases and maps, first editions, old-master engravings, incunabula, manuscripts, international avant-garde works, bibles, children’s books, comics, Japanese masters, artists’ books, literary editions, modern illustrated books, bindings; engravings, travel accounts, autographs, rare press editions, Private Press, etc.

EXPO

During the Fair — Mechelen, December 2025

*This edition features two mini-exhibitions:*

The Association of Antwerp Bibliophiles and the Dutch Society of Bibliophiles

These two organisations will jointly present a mini-exhibition as guest participants at the forthcoming Antiquarian Book Fair Mechelen 2025.

1. The literary group ‘Pink Poets’

A private circle of kindred spirits that counted thirteen members, including Paul Snoek, Henri-Floris Jespers and Hugues C. Pernath. In addition to the thirteen regular members, six honorary members were associated with the Pink Poets: Ivo Michiels, Paul de Vree, Marnix Gijsen, Maurice Gilliams, Karel Jonckheere and Renier Van der Velden. This literary group was known for sharing a common vision of poetry. They held aesthetic design in high esteem and opposed dullness and banality with artificial beauty and elegance. The Pink Poets were literary aesthetes with consciously decadent views on literature, producing a large number of literary and bibliophile editions.

New this year is a Sunday visit to several stands with a small group of young collectors. The aim is for exhibitors to share what makes collecting so enjoyable and to inspire and motivate young visitors to start their own collections.

2. IKA Book Art Course

Presentation by students of the Institute for Art and Craft (IKA), showing unique and beautifully bound masterpieces that demonstrate a wide range of bookbinding techniques.