A pair of Roman gilded terracotta frames from the 18th century

Roman terracotta giltwood frames from the 18th century with a similar shape and from the same period, but with slight differences. These small, Louis XIV-style gilded frames, made from hand-molded and gilded terracotta, probably served to frame oval miniatures and are decorated with acorns, masks, and botanical motifs. They are in good condition, with old restorations and minor chips in some areas, consistent with the period and small flaws. I am of Italian origin, living in Rome in the 18th century.

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

Many styles characterize antique furniture, but a few are particularly notable. Eclectic furniture refers to the 19th century, marked by the beloved 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. By the end of the century, these styles evolved into pseudo-classicism, Renaissance, and Baroque styles.

Beautiful Empire-style furniture dates from the late 18th to early 19th century. It originated during Napoleon’s reign, which emphasized grandeur and references to Roman and Greek ornamentation.

Neoclassical furniture is associated with Louis XVI style, which also draws heavily from ancient architecture. Noteworthy are antique products in Rococo and Louis XV styles. The next is Baroque, a term derived from the Portuguese 'barocco'—meaning an irregularly shaped pearl. These were highly ornate pieces designed to exude splendor and serve a role in luxury. Selectively used materials were employed to further emphasize the grandeur of these items.

Today, we can observe how much the Baroque style influenced modern classic furniture, which is designed with a strong resemblance to the past. An important style is also Renaissance, which flourished in the 15th and 16th centuries and left a significant mark on furniture-making. Renaissance furniture was quite heavy and robust, using dark stains, moldings, sturdy bases, and relief decorations. These products were quite distinctive but also introduced new possibilities, such as the construction of credenzas and broadly defined chest furniture. Mythology and ancient times also inspired these designs, with supports and legs often taking animal forms.

Lion’s paws and eagle heads are common motifs in Renaissance style. Currently, many global brands reproduce furniture inspired by Italian and French creators, reflecting 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 a luxurious antique that fits your interior.

The key to stylish antique furniture is originality. Ultimately, this is what matters most to buyers, as the market is flooded with fakes. Luxury Products provides documentation confirming the authenticity of each item, matching the description and photos. We also have appraisers, art experts, historians, and specialists from around the world at your disposal.