Antique open bookcase after renovation

Victorian mahogany open shelf unit made from light to medium mahogany, with a shaped top above 3 height-adjustable shelves, flanked by small quality carvings on the top and base, all standing on a molded plinth base. This antique shelf retains its original finish, which has been cleaned, restored, and waxed, all in excellent domestic condition. Circa 1860

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. 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 a few are particularly notable. Eclectic furniture refers to the 19th century, marked by the prevailing Biedermeier style. Its early 20th-century variants 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-classicism, Renaissance, and Baroque styles.

Empire-style furniture and accessories date from the late 18th to early 19th century, inspired by the reign of Napoleon. This style 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 products in Rococo and Louis XV styles. Baroque, whose name derives from the Portuguese 'barocco'—meaning an irregularly developed pearl—was characterized by highly ornate, luxurious furniture designed to impress with splendor and play a significant role in opulence. Materials were selectively chosen to emphasize the grandeur of these pieces.

Today, we can observe how the Baroque style has greatly influenced modern classic furniture, which is often designed with a strong resemblance to the historical period. The Renaissance style, flourishing in the 15th and 16th centuries, also left a significant mark on furniture design. Renaissance furniture was quite heavy and robust, using brown stains, cornices, sturdy bases, and relief decorations. These products were quite distinctive but also introduced new possibilities, such as the construction of credenzas and broadly defined chest furniture. Mythology and ancient themes were also popular, with supports and legs often taking animal forms.

Lion paws and eagle heads are common motifs in Renaissance style. Currently, many global brands reproduce furniture inspired by Italian and French artisans, demonstrating admiration and respect for the history of the most beautiful Renaissance antiques. It is important to remember that furniture production was perceived differently in each country, and each style had its unique character. This is especially important when searching for exclusive antique pieces suitable for your interior.

The key to prestigious antique furniture is originality. Ultimately, this is crucial from the buyer’s perspective, as the market is flooded with forgeries. Luxury Products provides documentation confirming the product’s authenticity and compliance with the description and photos. We also have appraisers, art experts, and historians from around the world at your disposal.