A pair of silver antique palometers from the 18th century

Small XVIII-century palmistry, 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 palmistry a baroque appearance. A silver decoration in the form of leaves is placed on the red Armenian shaft, which is 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.

Palmistry (or palm stands) are flower vases that were placed on altars as decorations; they often have a shallower depth and are not decorated on the back because they are placed against the walls of side altars. The situation is different for main altars, 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, as 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 decorations for any interior, 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 products 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.

There are many different styles characteristic of antique furniture, but we can distinguish a few of the most important. Eclectic furniture refers to the 19th century, marked by the prevailing Biedermeier style. Its early variations include neo-Gothic, Gothic, Rococo, Louis-Philippe style, or the Victorian style. By the end of the century, these styles transition into pseudo-classicism, Renaissance, and Baroque styles.

Beautiful Empire-style furniture dates from the period between the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Everything stems from Napoleon’s reign, which imposed a significant resemblance and references to Roman and Greek ornamentation.

Neoclassical furniture is in the Louis XVI style, which also strongly references ancient architecture. Interesting and noteworthy are all antique products in Rococo and Louis XV styles. The next is Baroque, whose name derives from the Portuguese 'barocco' – meaning an irregularly developed pearl. These were highly representative pieces of furniture, literally dripping with splendor and playing 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 the Baroque style influenced modern classic furniture, which is designed with a strong resemblance to the past era. An important style is also Renaissance, which flourished in the 15th and 16th centuries and also left a significant mark on furniture-making art. Renaissance furniture was quite heavy and bulky. Brown stains, cornices, strong pedestals, and bas-reliefs were used. These were quite specific products but offered many new possibilities, such as the construction of cupboards or broadly speaking, chest furniture. Here, too, there was an interest in mythology and ancient times, so supports or legs took animal forms.

Lion paws, eagle heads – these are common features in Renaissance style. Currently, many global brands reproduce such furniture inspired by Italian or French creators. This is a sign of admiration and respect for the history of the most beautiful Renaissance antiques. It is important to remember that furniture production was perceived differently in each country, so each style had its own character. This is especially important when searching for a luxurious antique suitable for your interior.