German sundial and compass from the 18th century

Ancient sundial with an XVIII-century diptych and a portable wooden compass sundial made from boxwood, of German origin, by Johann Georg Kleininger, Nuremberg, dating from around 1785, in good age-related condition, with signs of wear consistent with age and use.

The portable sundial, also known as a travel sundial, is a sundial that cannot be repaired or mounted. Stationary sundials typically measure the sun's hour angle directly and must be aligned with compass points. Portable sundials are mainly elevation sundials, used to measure the sun's elevation angle, which is indicated after assessment with known necessary declination, adjusted for the year, date, and solar hour. Usually, it is also necessary to know whether it is morning or afternoon, as the same elevation angle can be measured twice a day.

Prestigious 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 distinct character and soul. It 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 characteristic features.

There are numerous styles defining antique furniture, but a few key ones stand out. Eclectic furniture dates back to the 19th century, notably the Biedermeier style. Its early 20th-century variants include neo-Gothic, Gothic, Rococo, Louis-Philippe style, and the Victorian English style. By the end of the century, these styles evolved into pseudo-classicism, Renaissance, and Baroque styles.

Empire-style furniture originates from the period between the late 18th and early 19th centuries, inspired by Napoleon’s reign. It features significant similarities and references to Roman and Greek ornamentation.

Neoclassical furniture, associated with Louis XVI, also strongly references ancient architecture. Notable and noteworthy are antique products in Rococo and Louis XV styles. Next is Baroque, derived from the Portuguese word 'barocco'—meaning an irregularly shaped pearl. These were highly decorative pieces meant to radiate splendor and play a significant role in luxury. Materials were selectively chosen to emphasize the grandeur of these items.

Today, we can observe how much influence the Baroque style has had on modern classical 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 substantial 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 introduced new possibilities, such as the construction of credenzas and broadly defined chest furniture. Mythology and antiquity inspired many designs, with supports and legs often taking animal forms.

Lion paws, eagle heads—these are common motifs in Renaissance-style furniture. Currently, many global companies reproduce such furniture, inspired by Italian and French craftsmen. 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, giving each style a unique character. This is especially crucial when seeking an exclusive antique that fits your interior.

The most important aspect of original antique furniture is authenticity. Ultimately, this matters most to buyers, as the market is filled with many fakes. Luxury Products provides documentation confirming the product’s authenticity and compliance with the description and photos. We also have access to art appraisers, historians, and experts from around the world.