A pair of French genre paintings 1945, The Chemist and the Snake Catcher by Borghetto JJ

Borghetto JJ the Alchemist and the Snake Hunter 1945. Two large pendant paintings of French origin; the first depicts rather an alchemist than a pharmacist or chemist sitting in his laboratory with glass test tubes and distillers. An elegantly dressed man is seated at a table, writing. In the lower right corner, a cartouche bears the inscription Homo versutus scientiam celat. Ref. XII V7. Below, the signature J.J. Borghetto Juin 1945. The second painting of the same size shows three men in Nordic costumes, hunting snakes with forked sticks and spring clips to place them in a shoulder bag. In the lower left corner, in a cartouche, there is the inscription Coleban mutos serpentes Sap. II. V16. In the opposite corner, Borghetto's signature.

Luxurious 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 distinct character and soul. This is a nod to history, craftsmanship, and the design of classic and timeless furniture. There are many different styles in antique furniture, each with its characteristic features.

Many styles distinguish antique furniture, but a few are particularly notable. Eclectic furniture refers to the 19th century, especially the Biedermeier style. Its early 20th-century variants include neo-Gothic, Gothic, Rococo, Louis Philippe style, and the English Victorian style. By the end of the century, these styles evolved into pseudo-classicism, Renaissance, and Baroque styles.

Empire-style furniture dates from the late 18th to early 19th century, originating from Napoleon’s reign. 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. Next is Baroque, derived from the Portuguese word barocco—meaning an irregularly developed pearl. These were highly representative pieces designed to radiate splendor and play a significant role in luxury. Materials were selectively chosen to emphasize the grandeur of these items.

Today, we can observe how much influence the Baroque style has had on modern classical furniture, which is often 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 craftsmanship. Renaissance furniture was quite heavy and massive, using brown stains, moldings, sturdy bases, and reliefs. These products were quite distinctive but also opened 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 recreate furniture inspired by Italian and French artisans, demonstrating 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, giving each style a unique character. This is especially crucial when searching for exclusive antiques suitable for your interior.

The most important aspect of original antique furniture is authenticity. Ultimately, this matters most to buyers, as the market is flooded with fakes. Luxury Products provides documentation confirming the product’s compliance with its description and photos. We also have appraisers, art experts, historians, and specialists from around the world at your disposal.