Antique painting Banquet with Memento Mori figurines by Giovanni Martinelli from the 17th century

Ancient painting from 1600. Feast with figures Memento Mori by Giovanni Martinengo. Death arrives at the banquet table - Memento Mori from around 1635. An oil painting on canvas (framed in a new frame) inspired by the most famous work of the Tuscan painter from Montevarchi, Giovanni Martinengo (1600-1659). The macabre feast depicts four figures about to dine at a table covered with a white cloth, set with tin plates and stands with pears and plums, and a dolphin with a glass. The social dimension of this vanitas is suddenly disturbed by a presence that draws the attention of all participants: death. On the right side of the composition, a skeleton holding a scroll with the inscription est hora is visible; it seems that the letter is addressed to the head of a wealthy family (judging by the jewelry and clothing of the figures).

Original antique furniture and accessories can be an excellent idea for decorating our interiors. Today, there is an increasing 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 own distinctive features.

Many styles characterize antique furniture, but a few are particularly prominent. Eclectic furniture refers to the 19th century, during which the Biedermeier style was dominant. 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-classicism, Renaissance, and Baroque styles.

Original Empire-style furniture dates from the period between the late 18th and early 19th centuries. 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, a term derived from the Portuguese barocco – meaning an irregularly developed pearl. These were highly decorative pieces meant to shine with splendor 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 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 design. Renaissance furniture was quite heavy and bulky, often using brown stains, cornices, sturdy bases, and bas-reliefs. These products were quite distinctive but also opened new possibilities, such as the construction of credenzas and broadly speaking, chest furniture. During this period, there was also an interest in mythology and antiquity, so supports and legs often took animal forms.

Lion paws, eagle heads – these are common features in Renaissance style. Currently, many global brands reproduce such furniture inspired by Italian and French creators. 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 a luxurious antique that suits your interior.

The most important aspect of stylish antique furniture is originality. Ultimately, this is crucial from the customer’s perspective, as many counterfeit products circulate on the market. Luxury Products provides documentation confirming the product’s compliance with the actual description and photos. We also have appraisers, art experts, historians, and specialists from around the world at your disposal.