Antique continental pair of bedside tables

An attractive pair of continental-style bedside cabinets, made of mahogany and walnut, each with a red, marble-top over a beaded drawer, decorated with ormolu embellishments and cabinet doors (the interior lined with marble), flanked by corner accents, all floating on turned legs.  Year 1880

Prestigious antique furniture and accessories can be an excellent idea for decorating our interiors. Nowadays, there is an increasing number of enthusiasts of high-quality vintage items that possess a distinct character and soul. This is 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 we can highlight 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, and finally the Victorian English style. Toward the end of the century, these styles transition into pseudo-classicism, Renaissance, and Baroque styles.

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

Neoclassical furniture, associated with Louis XVI, also strongly references ancient architecture. Notable and worth mentioning are 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 designed to radiate splendor and play a significant role in luxury. Unique materials were selectively used to emphasize the grandeur of these items.

Today, we can observe how much influence the Baroque style has had on contemporary classical furniture, which is designed with a strong resemblance to the historical period. 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, often using brown stains, cornices, sturdy plinths, and bas-reliefs. These products were quite distinctive but also opened new possibilities, such as the construction of credenzas and broadly speaking, chest-type furniture. During this period, mythology and antiquity were also of interest, 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 artisans. This reflects 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 an exclusive antique that suits your interior.

The key aspect of elite antique furniture is originality. Ultimately, this is crucial from the buyer’s perspective, as many forgeries circulate on the market. Luxury Products provides documentation confirming the product’s authenticity and compliance with the description and photos. We have appraisers, art experts, historians, and specialists from around the world at your disposal.