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Islington Tribune - by PETER GRUNER
Published: 3 October 2008

Count Alexander von Beregshasy and Baroness Illse: ‘No one cares’

Count me out says jeweller as Mall closes

Colourful figure departs for Bavaria after developer evicts antiques traders

ONE of Islington’s most flamboyant characters, costume jeweller Count Alexander von Beregshasy, bade a tearful farewell to his customers this week as The Mall, in Camden Passage, finally closed.
The Austro-Hungarian count is one of 40 traders evicted from the world-famous antiques emporium by property developers who hope a large retail department store will move into the grade II-listed former tramshed.
Count Alexander, as well known for his eccentric 19th-century dress as for his replica royal crown jewels, joined the last remaining traders loading up boxes of antiques and locking up shops on Wednesday.
“The Mall has been the diamond in the crown of Camden Passage for almost 30 years,” he said. “We can’t believe it is really closing down. For us at least it’s the end.”
Islington Council, which has led a huge campaign to save the Mall and has refused permission to develop the interior, is pinning its hopes on a public inquiry in December.
It is possible that if London Associated Properties loses the inquiry it could invite traders back, but it would no longer be a predominantly antiques arcade and their return would probably be only on a temporary basis.
Count Alexander, who designed jewels for singer Beyoncé’s appearance at the Oscars and a tiara for comedian Stephen Fry to wear at Elton John’s birthday ball, said that the Mall closure was the end of an era for him and his mother, Baroness Illse.
“We’re finished with Islington and I’m afraid we’re finished with Britain,” he added. “We’re going back to live in Bavaria. At least there the air is good and they still welcome individuals with flair and personality.
“Our shop has become famous the world over and stars have purchased their jewellery. We’ve played our part to promote Camden Passage.
“There is no protection for the small trader in this country. No one cares. Paris has better antique markets.”
Silver trader Yvette Leibowitz, who has been in the Mall for 10 years, was similarly sad. “I’ve found another outlet nearby but it won’t be the same,” she said. “Customers from all over the world make a bee-line for The Mall. Will they want to come any more? I doubt it.”

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