A stylish pair of Italian reliquaries from the 18th century

18th-century monumental pair of gilded and silver-plated wooden reliquaries originating from central Italy, decorated with deep carving featuring a twisting motif, dating from the first half of the 18th century, around 1730.

Standing on bases shaped like inverted shelves, they display charming patina, original dark oxidized silver – the mecca – and gold leaf. The single-door wooden panel at the back is later. Condition is good, with signs of age-related wear and use.

Luxurious antique furniture and accessories can be an excellent idea for interior decoration. Today, there is an increasing number of enthusiasts of 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 key ones stand out. Eclectic furniture belongs to the 19th century, during which the beloved Biedermeier style prevailed. Its early variations include neo-Gothic, Gothic, Rococo, Louis Philippe style, and finally the Victorian English style. Toward the end of the century, these styles evolved into pseudo-classicism, Renaissance, and Baroque.

Empire-style furniture dates from the late 18th to early 19th century, inspired by 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-style products in Rococo and Louis XV styles. Next is Baroque, a term derived from the Portuguese ‘barocco’ – meaning an irregularly developed pearl. These were highly decorative pieces designed to radiate splendor and play a prominent 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. The Renaissance style is also significant, flourishing in the 15th and 16th centuries and leaving a substantial mark on furniture craftsmanship. Renaissance furniture was quite heavy and massive, using brown stains, moldings, sturdy bases, and bas-reliefs. These products were quite distinctive but also opened new possibilities, such as the construction of credenzas and broadly defined 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 reproduce furniture inspired by Italian and French artisans, paying homage to and preserving 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 important when searching for exclusive antiques suitable for your interior.

The key aspect of stylish antique furniture is originality. Ultimately, this is crucial for buyers, as the market is flooded with counterfeits. Luxury Products provides documentation confirming the product’s authenticity and compliance with the description and photos. We also have access to art appraisers, historians, and experts from around the world.