FastItalian LearningSign in
PhrasesAt the Antique MarketCerco qualcosa di particolare — posso lasciarle il mio numero?
B1formal

Cerco qualcosa di particolare — posso lasciarle il mio numero?

I'm looking for something specific — may I leave you my number?

Pronunciation

par-ti-co-LA-re — five syllables; stress on the fourth. 'Particolare' means particular/specific.

When to use it

Use this when the dealer doesn't currently have what you're looking for but might find it. Building a relationship with a dealer who can alert you to new acquisitions is invaluable.

What it means

'Cerco qualcosa di particolare' (I'm looking for something specific) + 'posso lasciarle il mio numero?' (may I leave you my number?). Italian antique dealers often function as finders — they will actively look for specific items for trusted clients. This phrase initiates that relationship.

Variations

Ha la mia lista dei desideri?

Do you have my wish list?

If you're a returning customer, they may already know your preferences

Se trova qualcosa di Liberty mi avverta.

If you find anything Liberty please let me know.

Specific alert request for a style period

Viene spesso a questo mercato?

Do you come to this market often?

Finding out frequency of attendance — for planning return visits

Mini Dialogue

— Cerco qualcosa di particolare — posso lasciarle il mio numero? — Cosa cerca? — Ceramiche di Lenci degli anni Trenta — statuine, piatti. — Lenci è molto ricercato. Se la trovo qualcosa, la chiamo. — Ecco il biglietto da visita.

— I'm looking for something specific — may I leave you my number? — What are you looking for? — Lenci ceramics from the thirties — figurines, plates. — Lenci is very sought after. If I find something, I'll call you. — Here's my business card.

Cultural Note

Lenci (Turin, 1919–2002) produced extraordinary Art Deco ceramic figurines that are now highly collectible. Named after Elena König Scavini and her nickname, Lenci pieces feature characteristic matte pastel glazes and elongated Art Deco figures. Genuine Lenci pieces carry a 'Lenci Torino Made in Italy' mark. Fakes are common.