Ep 1. The Firefly Cage

Lovejoy season 1 episode 1, named "The Firefly Cage," is a captivating episode that introduces viewers to the charming and witty antiques dealer, Lovejoy. The episode is set in the picturesque town of East Anglia, England, and follows Lovejoy as he navigates the intricate world of antiques trading.

The episode begins with Lovejoy attending an auction where he sets his sights on a valuable piece of furniture. However, he quickly discovers that another dealer, Harry Catopodis, has also taken an interest in the same item. Lovejoy and Harry engage in a fierce bidding war, with Lovejoy eventually emerging victorious.

The following day, Lovejoy receives a visit from his friend Eric, who asks him to investigate a suspicious transaction involving a Chinese statuette. Eric believes that the statuette was sold for far less than it was worth and suspects foul play. Lovejoy agrees to take on the case and begins his investigation.

Lovejoy soon discovers that the statuette was sold to a local doctor, Dr. Jane Felsham, by none other than Harry Catopodis. He decides to pay a visit to Dr. Felsham and inquire about the transaction. However, he is met with hostility and suspicion from the doctor, who accuses him of being a thief and threatens to call the police.

Undeterred, Lovejoy continues his investigation and receives a tip-off about a potential buyer for the statuette. He decides to set up a meeting with the buyer and arranges for Dr. Felsham to be present as well. However, the meeting takes a dramatic turn when Lovejoy discovers that the buyer is none other than Harry Catopodis.

Lovejoy confronts Harry about the suspicious transaction and accuses him of selling the statuette for a fraction of its true value. A heated argument ensues, and Lovejoy manages to retrieve the statuette and returns it to its rightful owner.

The episode ends with Lovejoy reflecting on the complexities of the antiques trade and his admiration for the beauty and history of the items he deals in. It sets the stage for a series filled with intriguing mysteries, complex characters, and of course, the charismatic and enigmatic Lovejoy.