Philadelphia - July 22, 2008

Antique-Le Freak

Perpetua Antiques Boutique

Perpetua (Latin for “let it endure forever”) is the name of the newest antiques boutique in Fishtown.

Owner/curator Edward G. Marshall has spent a lifetime collecting, well, basically everything. Still missing your favorite childhood toy? Searching for a vintage copy of Alice in Wonderland? Need a stunning midcentury lamp for your new living room? Chances are, Perpetua has it.

There are hundreds of collectibles and curiosities to search through, and a cozy alcove in the back boasts “Philadelphia’s Tiniest Bookstore.” You’ll find everything from 18th-century art and prints to flapper-era jewelry and kitschy 1950s kitchen appliances — at prices that aren’t the least bit scary.

All you need is endurance.

Perpetua, 2041 Frankford Avenue (215-634-4447 or egmarshall.com).