A pair of silver antique palometers from the 18th century

Pair of small, 18th-century palm stands made of silver oxide, consisting of two turned and carved linden wood vases placed on a square base. Two large, spiral handles attached to the body of the vase give the palm stands a baroque appearance. A silver decoration in the form of leaves is placed on the red Armenian shaft, clearly visible in the relief sculpture. The back is carved (not handles) and finished with gray earth. They originate from Emilia-Romagna and are dated to the mid-18th century. They are preserved in good condition, apart from minor chips near the base of one of the two, which can be seen in the photo gallery.

Palm stands (or palm holders) 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 a circular shape. Various materials were used, mainly wood, copper or brass sheet metal, stamped or transformed into tiles, but also cast bronze. 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.

Beautiful 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 is a nod to history, the creation, and design of traditional and timeless furniture. There are many different styles in antique furniture, each with its distinctive features.

Many styles characterize antique furniture, but we can highlight a few of the most important. 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 period between the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Everything originated from Napoleon’s reign, which 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 all antique products in Rococo style and Louis XV. Next is Baroque, a name derived from the Portuguese 'barocco'—meaning an irregularly developed pearl. These were highly decorative pieces meant to radiate splendor and play a significant role in luxury. Materials were selectively used to 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 former era. An important style is also Renaissance, which flourished in the 15th and 16th centuries and left a significant mark on furniture design. Renaissance furniture was quite heavy and massive, using brown stains, moldings, strong bases, and reliefs. These products were quite distinctive but also opened new possibilities, such as the construction of sideboards and broadly speaking, chest furniture. They also reflected an interest in mythology and antiquity, with supports and legs 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 creators, 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, so each style had its unique character. This is especially important when searching for a luxurious antique that suits your interior.