Antique, decorated terracotta bottle from the 19th century in the shape of a lens

Ancient, decorated terracotta bottle from 1800, in lens shape, on a white background with concentric, circular decorations in shades of blue and ochre, outlined with a black border, with a base. The highest one has a glued edge at the base of the handle. The ornament is placed on both sides of the body, and its bottom features side slits and holes to allow threading a string. In good condition, aside from a few scratches resulting from use and age, and a chip at the base. Originates from central Italy.

These small terracotta bottles were specially designed for storing water or other liquids necessary for quenching the thirst of pilgrims during their journey. Relatively small in size, lens-shaped, with the possibility of attaching to a belt or carrying on the shoulder using a string wrapped around the flask and threaded through four loops or perforated sockets on the sides.

Thus, the basic traveler's tool was soon decorated and enriched with new shapes, both in terms of the plastic used for the flask and its typology, leading to unique forms such as a hollow flask, which, equipped with a base, suggests more of a decorative than functional purpose.

The decorations also include primitive graffiti with geometric or floral motifs, enamel coloring, or decoration that may be pictorial, following common patterns of the period, or, as in the most popular examples, abstract, like in bottles with abstract, almost freeform decoration, where we might think that the decorator simply had colors available for use or finishing.

Exceptional 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 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 distinctive features.

Many styles characterize antique furniture, but a few are particularly notable. Eclectic furniture refers to the 19th century, especially the 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 transitioned into pseudo-classicism, Renaissance, and Baroque styles.

Beautiful 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 is associated with Louis XVI style, which also strongly references ancient architecture. Noteworthy are antique products in Rococo and Louis XV styles. The next is Baroque, derived from the Portuguese word 'barocco'—meaning an irregularly developed pearl. These were highly decorative pieces meant to radiate splendor and play a significant role in luxury. Selectively used materials were employed to emphasize the grandeur of these items.

Today, we can observe how much influence the Baroque style has had on modern classic 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 craftsmanship. Renaissance furniture was quite heavy and massive, using brown stains, moldings, sturdy bases, and reliefs. These products were quite distinctive but also opened new possibilities, such as the construction of sideboards or broadly conceived chest furniture. They also reflected an interest in mythology and antiquity, with supports and legs taking animal forms.

Lion's paws, eagle's heads – these are common sights especially in Renaissance style. Currently, many global brands reproduce furniture crafted in this style, drawing inspiration from Italian and French creators. This reflects admiration and respect for the history of the most beautiful Renaissance antiques. It is important to remember that in each country, the production of furniture was perceived differently, so each style had its own distinct character. This is very important, especially when searching for a luxurious antique that suits your interior.

The most important aspect of vintage antique furniture is originality. This is ultimately crucial from the buyer's perspective, as the market is flooded with many counterfeits. Luxury Products provides a certificate confirming the product's compliance with its actual description and photographs. We have art appraisers, historians, and experts from around the world at your disposal.