Antique print showing the Milan Arena in 1897.

An antique print depicting the Milan Arena in 1897. Woodcut designed by Antonio Bonamore for the “Illustrated Century of Sunday,” a weekly magazine published by Sonzogno since 1889. The illustrated section features the caption “The Milan Arena. Summer evening shows,” taken from issue no. 407 dated July 11, 1897. Presented in a passe-partout frame bordered with watercolor profiles, in good condition.

Wonderful antique furniture and accessories can be an excellent idea for decorating our interiors. Currently, there is a growing 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 prominent. Eclectic furniture refers to the 19th century, during which the Biedermeier style was dominant. Its early 20th-century variants include neo-Gothic, Gothic, Rococo, Louis Philippe style, and finally the English Victorian style. Toward the end of the century, these styles evolved 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 reflects the Louis XVI style, which also strongly references ancient architecture. Noteworthy and interesting are antique products in Rococo and Louis XV styles. Next is Baroque, a term derived from the Portuguese “barocco,” meaning an irregularly shaped pearl. These were highly decorative pieces designed to radiate 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. The Renaissance style is also significant, flourishing in the 15th and 16th centuries and leaving a profound mark on furniture design. Renaissance furniture was quite heavy and robust, often using brown stains, moldings, sturdy bases, and relief decorations. 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, so supports and legs often took animal forms.

Lion paws, eagle heads—these are common motifs in Renaissance style. Currently, many global brands reproduce furniture inspired by Italian and French artisans, paying homage to and preserving 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 important when searching for a luxurious antique that suits your interior.

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