A pair of antique vases, 18th century

A pair of small 18th-century palmariums, consisting of two turned and carved limewood vases placed on a square base. Two large, spiral handles attached to the body of the vase give the palms a baroque appearance. The red Armenian stem is decorated with a silver embellishment in the form of leaves, which is clearly visible in the relief sculpture. The back is uncarved and finished with gray earth. They originate from Emilia-Romagna and date back to the mid-18th century. They are preserved in good condition, apart from a small crack at the base of one of the two, which can be seen in the photo gallery.

Palmariums (or palm stands) are flower vases that were placed on altars as decorations; they often have a shallower depth and are unadorned at the back because they are placed against the walls of side altars. The main altars are different, where they are made in the round. Various materials were used, mainly wood, copper or brass sheet metal, stamped or transformed into tiles, as well as bronze castings. Palms, symbols of the victory of Christianity, are replaced by artificial flowers made from various materials such as fabrics, sheet metal, beads. They are perfect as interior decorations, especially as bases for lamps.

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 have 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 are particularly notable. Eclectic furniture refers to the 19th century, marked by the prevailing Biedermeier style. Its variants in the early years of this century include neo-Gothic, Gothic, Rococo, Louis-Philippe style, and finally the English Victorian style. Toward the end of the century, these styles transition into pseudo styles of Classicism, Renaissance, and Baroque.

Beautiful Empire-style furniture dates from the late 18th to early 19th century. It all stems from Napoleon’s reign. This period imposed a significant resemblance and references to Roman and Greek ornamentation.

Neoclassical furniture is associated with Louis XVI style, which also strongly references ancient architecture. Interesting and noteworthy are antique products in Rococo style and Louis XV. Next is Baroque, whose name derives from the Portuguese 'barocco' – meaning irregularly developed pearl. These were highly decorative pieces meant to exude splendor and play a significant role in luxury. Unique, selectively used materials were employed to further emphasize the grandeur of these items.

Today, we can observe how much influence the Baroque style has had on modern classical furniture, which is designed with a strong resemblance to the historical period. An important style is also Renaissance, which flourished in the 15th and 16th centuries and left a significant mark on furniture-making art. Renaissance furniture was quite heavy and massive. Brown stains, cornices, sturdy bases, and reliefs were used. These were quite distinctive products, but they also opened up new possibilities, such as the construction of credenzas and broadly speaking, chest furniture. There was also an interest in mythology and ancient times, so supports and legs often took animal forms.

Lion’s paws, eagle heads – these are common motifs in Renaissance style. Currently, many global brands reproduce furniture inspired by Italian and French creators. 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 in each country, so each style had its unique character. This is especially important when searching for a luxurious antique that suits your interior.