Our History
Born from an Art Deco, Hollywood Regency, and Egyptian Revival fever dream, Madame Fortuna emerged in 2002 as “Fortuna,” a jewel box of a vintage shop tucked inside a renovated Williamsburg bodega. What began as a passion project soon evolved into a destination for those drawn to beauty with history and to objects that whisper stories of craftsmanship, glamour, and time.
In 2015, founder Allison Ward reimagined Madame Fortuna in the small riverside town of Narrowsburg, New York, transforming it into a haven of exquisite taste and quiet discovery. Over the past decade, the shop has flourished as a highly curated boutique devoted to fine vintage jewelry, artful design, and enduring style. What began as a singular vision has grown into a destination defined by its eye for beauty, sense of history, and unmistakable charm.
Each piece that enters Madame Fortuna’s world, whether a glinting Georgian gold jewel, a sculptural mid-century furnishing, or a rare garment from the 1980s or 1990s, is selected for its provenance, craftsmanship, and soul. Together, they tell a story of lives lived beautifully and art created to last. The result is a collection that transcends trends and decades, offering objects that feel both timeless and deeply personal.
Today, Madame Fortuna has become a beloved destination for collectors, tastemakers, and design devotees who seek objects with meaning and magnetism. Our evolving curations are grounded in authenticity and allure, blending the elegance of the past with a distinctly modern sensibility.
We proudly feature and collaborate with visionaries such as Chairloom, Brett Day Windham, Mayer Wasner, TU·ET·AL, Flamingo Estate, and others whose work shares our reverence for artistry and integrity. Madame Fortuna also participates in a number of celebrated showcases, including the Manhattan Vintage Show, Normal Market, Material Matters, and the New York Jewelry and Object Show. Each collaboration and exhibition continues the Madame Fortuna narrative, one of discovery, discernment, and devotion to beauty.
Whether you are searching for an heirloom-worthy jewel, a statement piece of fashion, or a singular object imbued with history, Madame Fortuna invites you to experience the quiet magic that has captivated our community for more than ten years and continues to inspire all who cross its threshold.