New York's antique buffs descended on the 52nd Annual Winter Antiques Show preview party, held at the Seventh Regiment Armory, to put their discriminating tastes and dollars to work. The show, regarded as one of the must-go-to events of the year, benefited the East Side Settlement House, which helps educate underprivileged families.

This year's special loan exhibition was "George Washington's Mount Vernon," showcasing a remark-able collection of 50 pieces from the first President's home, including the "Dove of Peace" weather vane and a portrait of Washington after the Battle of Princeton, by Charles Wilson Peale. Martha Stewart was on hand and couldn't resist mugging with the famed George Washington impersonator, William Sommerfield, who made sure guests were entertained and enlightened.

Interior designer Mario Buatta threw in some high jinks to an evening of sophistication by placing a fake cockroach onto the food trays, shocking the glam crowd and causing shrieking from the ladies.

Highlighted pieces of the collection: A striking German suit of armor from the 16th century and several exquisite pieces from Egypt, including a turquoise-glazed sculpture of Isis, the goddess of fertility. However, not everyone was impressed with all of the treasures on display. Bits and pieces of conversation were overheard: "Did you see that ugly antique pheasant?" and "There is such an imbalance of what is right and wrong in this world." One coquettish woman, who appeared to be "digging for gold" at the event, commented, "Look at the watch that he's wearing!"

Stephen and Christine Schwarzman were actively shopping. Stephen said that although their apartment is finished, "There's a new project we're doing in Palm Beach. We're actually looking to buy."

Several people commented on the two 18th-century mechanical tables at L'Antiquaire & the Connoisseur's booth. But the piece true New Yorkers will want is a gilded wall bracket, with a dentil detail. "It belonged to Alice Tully," said gallery owner Helen Fioratti.

Among the boldnames (who left with an umbrella by Wathne as a party token): Elle Decor's Margaret Russell, Coco and Arie Kopelman, Amy Fine Collins, Barbara and Donald Tober, Pat Altschul, Leonard and Evelyn Lauder, Jamee Gregory, Aerin Lauder, Albert Hadley, Emily Keno, Bettina Zilkha, Geoffrey Bradfield, Diana Quasha, and Sheri and Larry Babbio.

A social soiree that made quite an artistic statement!