Ira’s Curiosity Place

If you like to find a good reason to visit Stapleton, then schedule a visit to Ira’s place. I just happened to pass by after church and spent the next 3 hours checking all items that caught my fancy. Paintings, chandeliers, teacups, crystals, faded photographs, cabinets, stamps, books, candleholders, lampshades, lamps, ancient bottles, headboards, watches, sterling silver, toys, chairs, chests of drawers, coffee tables, sculptures, etc etc etc —all in varying conditions and at prices that I’m convinced are very reasonable. It’s not the usual 2^nd hand store as some may have thought as there are great finds here. I’m loving the glass dolphin sculpture I just got from here, plus some other stuff. And I got the wonderful opportunity to chat, and get to know Ira, plus some neighbors who happened to show up, too. I’ll be be back for sure, as I’m going to get more stuff for my own bookstore plus my living space less than 50 steps from this store. Enjoy shopping!

This is a great diamond in the ruff located in the North Shore of Staten Island. If you like antiquing, this is the place to go. Ira has all kinds of treasures, and you are sure to find something in the amazing array of antiques he has inside of this place. I found a vintage japanese snail toy, and my dining room table in a beautiful rich cherry mahogony color, and get complimented on it all the time.
It’s a walk, but you can find your way here from the ferry by foot. Don’t hesitate to stop by the neighboring businesses for a bite to eat, or relax in the café across the street. There is also another vintage clothing store, and a place that sells estate items. Come to Iras on Van Duzer st for a day of antiquing and enjoying some relaxing treats from nearby establishments.

I’ve purchased some exquisite pieces at Ira’s — a beautiful bookshelf, a handcarved Chinese wool rug at more than reasonable prices. His auctions are fun and there are some great finds!

Ira has very nice pieces at a reasonable price when the store is open, and has some entertaining auctions about once a month too. He’ll serve Entenmann’s and coffee at his auctions and even champagne if it’s near New Year’s. I’d give him another star if he didn’t yell at the auction audience for not bidding on things the way he’d like them to.