An 18th-century Italian pawn kneeler

From Italy, Lombardy, a rare prayer faldistorium made of Italian walnut, an Italian Louis XV prayer bench with three drawers and protruding frames crafted from ebonized wood, dating from the early 1700s.

A fantastic example of Lombard furniture craftsmanship, this antique Italian prie-dieu is in good condition considering its age. Old repairs are consistent with its age and use. Thanks to its minimal size, this antique walnut inlay kneeler can be placed in a bedroom or living room.

Walnut veneered on the sides and front, with solid walnut on the top and frame, this unique piece comes from a private residence in Milan. Charming patina, interior lined with paper, restored edge—see the detailed close-up.

Exclusive 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 items that possess 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.

Several main styles characterize antique furniture, though some of the most important include. Eclectic furniture from the 19th century, featuring the beloved Biedermeier style. Its early 20th-century variants include neo-Gothic, Gothic, Rococo, Louis Philippe style, and 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 the reign of Napoleon. It features significant similarities and references to Roman and Greek ornamentation.

Neoclassical furniture, associated with Louis XVI, also draws heavily from ancient architecture. Notable and worth mentioning are antique pieces in Rococo and Louis XV styles. Next is Baroque, whose name derives from the Portuguese 'barocco'—meaning an irregularly developed pearl. These were highly decorative pieces meant to radiate splendor and play a prominent role in luxury. Materials were chosen selectively 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 designed with a strong resemblance to the historical period. An important style is also Renaissance, flourishing in the 15th and 16th centuries, which left a significant mark on furniture-making. Renaissance furniture was quite heavy and massive, often using brown stains, moldings, sturdy bases, and bas-reliefs. These products were quite distinctive but also opened new possibilities, such as the construction of cupboards and broadly speaking, chest furniture. Mythology and ancient times also 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 companies reproduce such furniture, inspired by Italian and French creators. This is a testament to 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 its unique character. This is especially important when searching for an exclusive antique that suits your interior.

The most crucial aspect of original antique furniture is authenticity. Ultimately, this is vital for buyers, as the market is flooded with many forgeries. Luxury Products provides documentation confirming that the product matches its description and photos. We also have appraisers, art experts, historians, and specialists from around the world at your disposal.