A carved pair of busts from the 19th century

Elegant pair of Italian figural sculptures carved from alabaster from 1834, featuring Tuscan busts depicting two figures in neoclassical style: middle-aged noblemen dressed in 19th-century attire, a female figure in an evening gown with a deep neckline and intricate curled hairstyle, and a well-dressed male figure with a bow tie, of Tuscan origin, specifically from Livorno. Both figures are beautifully carved: the man with curly hair and prominent sideburns, wearing a jacket and coat, with small details on the right nostril and lower part of the coat, as well as a missing part of his bow tie. The lady wears a dress with a generous neckline and an elaborate hairstyle; she also has a small chip near her right earring and some additions at the front right corner of the base and on some curls of her hairstyle.

Backdated and signed, with an engraving of Giuse (G.) Benajsai, made in 1834 in Livorno.

Exceptional antique furniture and accessories can be an excellent idea for decorating our interiors. Today, there is an increasing number of enthusiasts of high-quality vintage items that possess a specific character and soul. It’s a nod to history, craftsmanship, and the design of {traditional|classic} and timeless furniture. There are many different styles in antique furniture, each with its distinctive features.

Many styles characterize antique furniture, but a few key ones stand out. Eclectic furniture refers to the 19th century, marked by the dominant Biedermeier style. Its early variations include neo-Gothic, Gothic, Rococo, Louis Philippe style, and finally the English Victorian style. By the end of the century, these styles evolved into pseudo styles of classicism, Renaissance, and Baroque.

Original Empire-style furniture dates from the late 18th to early 19th century, originating from the reign of Napoleon. It features significant similarities and references to Roman and Greek ornamentation.

Neoclassical furniture, associated with Louis XVI, also draws heavily from ancient architecture. Noteworthy are antique products in Rococo and Louis XV styles. The Baroque style, whose name derives from the Portuguese 'barocco'—meaning an irregularly developed pearl—consists of highly ornate furniture designed to radiate splendor and play a significant role in luxury. Unique materials were selectively used to emphasize the grandeur of these pieces.

Today, we can observe how much the Baroque style influenced modern classic furniture, which is often designed with a strong resemblance to the historical period. The Renaissance style, flourishing in the 15th and 16th centuries, also left a significant mark on furniture craftsmanship. Renaissance furniture was quite heavy and massive, using brown stains, cornices, sturdy bases, and reliefs. These products were quite distinctive but also introduced new possibilities, such as the construction of cupboards and broadly speaking, chest furniture. Mythology and ancient times inspired these designs, with supports and legs often taking animal forms.

Lion paws, eagle heads—these are common motifs in Renaissance style. Currently, many global brands reproduce furniture inspired by Italian and French artisans. This reflects admiration and respect for the history of the most beautiful Renaissance antiques. It’s important to remember that furniture production was perceived differently across countries, and each style had its unique character. This is especially crucial when searching for a luxurious antique that fits your interior.

The key aspect of stylish antique furniture is originality. Ultimately, this is vital for buyers, as many fakes circulate on the market. Luxury Products provides documentation confirming the product’s authenticity and compliance with the description and photos. We also have experts in art appraisal, history, and specialists from around the world at your disposal.