UK Rare Book Collectors’ Conference at Knowsley Hall / UK

Ilona Matsour, founder and creative director of the Berlin-based couture label MATSOUR’I, was introduced as one of the special guests of honour at the prestigious UK Rare Book Collectors’ Conference, which took place from 19 to 21 June 2026 at the magnificent Knowsley Hall, one of England’s most significant historic stately homes.

The announced guests of honour included the renowned royal biographer Hugo Vickers, Caroline Stanley, Countess of Derby, Lady Anne Glenconner, and Kermit Roosevelt III, the renowned American author, professor of constitutional law and great-great-grandson of Theodore Roosevelt, the 26th President of the United States. Fashion designer and founder of the couture label MATSOUR’I, Ilona Matsour, was also introduced among the special guests of honour.

The impressive setting of Knowsley Hall, a stately home associated with the family of the Earls of Derby for more than six centuries, lent the event a unique atmosphere of British history, elegance and cultural tradition.

The exclusive programme included a celebratory cocktail reception hosted by the Earl and Countess of Derby, as well as an elegant three-course dinner in the historic State Dining Room, originally designed for the visit of King George IV in 1820.

The conference was organised by Fine Book Fairs, founded by Eve and Edward Lemon. The company is known for its exclusive events dedicated to rare books and the art of collecting. The conference brought together an exceptional circle of international collectors, scholars, authors, aristocrats and figures from the worlds of art and culture.

The conference provided a special platform for intellectual exchange, inspiring encounters and the appreciation of Britain’s literary and cultural heritage.

For MATSOUR’I, a couture label whose philosophy is rooted in exceptional craftsmanship, artistic expression and timeless elegance, this special event reflected the deep connection between fashion, art, literature and cultural heritage.

The event celebrated creativity, refinement and living tradition, bringing together individuals who share a passion for beauty, knowledge and the preservation of cultural values.