PAD had lost some exhibitors to the new Frieze Masters fair, which consolidated its debut success in its second year and arguably overshadowed its big sister, the Contemporary art-only Frieze London, the mothership of this whole jamboree.
Now 11 years old, Frieze London was given a bit of an aesthetic makeover this year which improved the experience but, ironically, it is still starting to look a bit tired and dated in comparison to the sleeker Masters event, the fair for historical or 'second hand' art as some of the contemporary crew call it.
Big sales were made at all three, but there was still caution in the air too, as seen in the less-than-spectacular auction series.
The Friezeweek Contemporary art auctions raised a hammer total of £110.5m at Sotheby's, Christie's and Phillips. This was around £5m less than the equivalent sales last October.
