Antique pair of 18th century cornucopia wall lamps in gilded wood and carved flowers

XVIII-century cornucopia horns made of gilded wood and carved flowers, in excellent condition, consisting of two twisted cornucopia horns filled with carved flowers and botanical and leafy motifs. The two cornucopia horns, symbols of prosperity, are sculpted with a gentle, curved line starting at the base with two oak leaves and ending with a luminous upper point on the twisted arms, finished with iron bobeches and large fittings suitable for two E27 bulbs.

This pair of double-arm Italian gilded wall sconces, decorated with beautiful water gilding made from pure gold leaf, dates from the 18th century and was crafted from two carved altar pyramids or similar friezes, as can be seen from the joints at the back, which were fitted with spacers to facilitate easy wall mounting.

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 items that possess a distinct character and soul. It is a nod to history, craftsmanship, and the creation of traditional 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 belongs 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 late 18th to early 19th century. It was influenced by Napoleon’s reign, which imposed a strong resemblance to Roman and Greek decorative motifs.

Neoclassical furniture, associated with Louis XVI, also draws heavily from ancient architecture. Noteworthy are antique products in Rococo and Louis XV styles. Next is Baroque, a term derived from the Portuguese 'barocco'—meaning an irregularly developed pearl. These were highly ornate, luxurious pieces designed to radiate splendor and play a significant role in opulence. Selective use of extraordinary materials was employed to emphasize the grandeur of these items.

Today, we can observe how much the Baroque style influenced modern classic furniture, which is often 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, 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 credenzas and broadly conceived chest furniture. Mythology and ancient times inspired many details, with supports and legs often taking animal forms.

Lion paws, eagle heads—these are common features in Renaissance style. Currently, many global brands recreate such furniture inspired by Italian and French artisans, demonstrating 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 a unique character. This is especially crucial when searching for a luxurious antique that suits your interior.

The key to stylish antique furniture is originality. Ultimately, this is vital from the customer’s perspective, as many counterfeits circulate on the market. Luxury Products provides documentation confirming the product’s compliance with the actual description and photographs. We also have appraisers, art experts, historians, and specialists from around the world at your disposal.