A unique encounter

 

Out of curiosity, I include a photograph of my father in Ericeira in Portugal during a summer vacation, wearing a Pullover that can be mistaken for Cricket, but which was used to play Tennis.

Something extraordinary happened. Over the years my visits in Amsterdam to the Waterlooplein, the local version of the "Marché aux puces", have become a frequent ritual in my daily life. With the phenomenon of hyper-awareness of Vintage, this translated into a galloping growth in prices and unfortunately associated with a loss of quality and authenticity of a saturated market, the flea markets are the last stronghold of trouvailles and unexpected surprises.

Over the years I have become a kind of curator and keeper who recognizes, in the midst of the greatest chaos, the quality and authenticity of pieces completely lost in oblivion and lost in a chaotic mix stretching along the floor.

This cricket "Spencer" was found on the ground and recognized by me as an authentic piece, and not as a reproduction and "fashion" version of Ralph Lauren or Hillfiger.

This was confirmed by the name of the former cricketer and owner of the "pullover" which was still clearly visible.

A few days ago, during a walk with a friend, when I was wearing the "Cricket" jumper, I was approached by a Young and Sporty Gentleman, clearly British, who asked me about the school associated with this club that was represented by the emblem present on the chest of the "pullover".

I told him the story of how the piece had been saved from oblivion by my act of recognition and  that the name of the former owner was still mentioned on the Pullover.

Great was his astonishment and feeling of magical surprise when he recognized the name as one of his former sports students. He amazed me with the photos still present in his cell phone of this young athlete in question. He was, therefore, the Sports Teacher of this Private School. A pleasant atmosphere of conversation was thus established.

This surprising coincidence and amazing encounter culminated in a joint photograph.

JEEVES / TWEEDLAND