German sundial and compass from the 18th century

Ancient sundial with an XVIII-century diptych and a portable wooden compass sundial made of boxwood with a compass, 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 clock, is a sundial that cannot be repaired or mounted. Stationary sundials typically measure the solar hour angle directly and must be aligned with compass points. Portable sundials are mainly elevation dials, used to measure the solar elevation angle, which is indicated after assessment with known necessary declination, adjusted for the year, with the sun's position as the 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 decorating our interiors. 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.

Many styles distinguish antique furniture, but a few are particularly notable. Eclectic furniture refers to the 19th century, marked by the popular Biedermeier style. Its early 20th-century variants include neo-Gothic, Gothic, Rococo, Louis-Philippe style, and 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 strong similarities and references to Roman and Greek ornamentation.

Neoclassical furniture, associated with Louis XVI, also draws heavily from ancient architecture. Noteworthy are antique pieces in Rococo and Louis XV styles. The next is Baroque, derived from the Portuguese word 'barocco'—meaning an irregularly shaped pearl. These were highly ornate, luxurious pieces designed to impress with their splendor and play a significant role in opulence. Materials were selectively chosen to emphasize the grandeur of these items.

Today, we can observe how much the Baroque style influenced modern classical furniture, which often resembles the historical period. The Renaissance style also had a significant impact, flourishing in the 15th and 16th centuries and leaving a lasting mark on furniture design. Renaissance furniture was quite heavy and robust, using dark stains, moldings, strong bases, and relief decorations. These pieces 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, eagle heads—these are common motifs in Renaissance-style furniture. Currently, many global companies reproduce such 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 styles were perceived differently in each country, giving each style a unique character. This is especially important when seeking an exclusive antique that fits your interior.

The most important aspect of original antique furniture is authenticity. This is ultimately crucial for buyers, as the market is flooded with many forgeries. Luxury Products provides documentation confirming the product’s compliance with its description and photographs. We also have access to art appraisers, historians, and experts from around the world.