A tasteful antique print of The Wild Duck from the 18th century

Saverio Manetti, wild duck, circa 1770, from the work Ornitologia methodica digesta atque icomibus atque iconibus aeneis ad vivum illuminatis ornata… Historia naturalna ptaków traktowana metodą i ozdobiona figurami wyrzeźbionymi w miedzi i iluminowanymi na podstawie natury, published in Florence by Monchiana printing house by Saverio Manetti and Violante Vanni between 1767–1776. The sheet measures 450 x 350 mm with wide margins (mm. 450 x 350). This old hand-painted watercolor is in good condition and framed in a modern frame. At the top, there is the table number in Roman numerals DLXXI and a description of the wild duck species called Germano forastiero – anas boschas Major, while at the bottom, there are thanks to the financier His Excellency Mr. Marchese Carlo Molinari Patrizio Milanese, etc.
Original antique furniture and accessories can be an excellent idea for decorating our interiors. Today, there is a growing number of enthusiasts of high-quality vintage products that have a specific character and soul. It’s a nod to history, craftsmanship, and the 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 a few are particularly prominent. Eclectic furniture refers to the 19th century, marked by the prevailing Biedermeier style. Its early variations 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 styles of classicism, Renaissance, and Baroque.

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

Neoclassical furniture is associated with Louis XVI style, which also strongly references ancient architecture. Noteworthy are all antique products in Rococo style and Louis XV. Next is Baroque, a term derived from the Portuguese barocco— meaning an irregularly developed pearl. These were highly decorative pieces meant to radiate brilliance and play a significant role in luxury. Unique, selectively used materials were employed to emphasize the grandeur of these items.

Today, we can observe how much the Baroque style influenced modern classical 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 left a significant mark on furniture-making art. Renaissance furniture was quite heavy and massive, using brown stains, cornices, sturdy bases, and bas-reliefs. These were quite distinctive products but also opened new possibilities, such as the construction of credenzas and broadly speaking, chest-type furniture. They also reflected an interest in mythology and ancient times, with supports and legs often taking animal forms.

Lion paws, eagle heads—these are common motifs in Renaissance style. Currently, many global brands reproduce such furniture, inspired by Italian and French creators. This is a sign of 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.

The key to stylish antique furniture is originality. And ultimately, this is crucial from the customer’s perspective, as many fakes circulate on the market. Luxury Products provides a certificate confirming the product’s compliance with the actual description and photo. We have appraisers, art experts, and historians from around the world at your disposal.