Imperial villa of San Martino on the island of Elba from the 19th century

Imperial villa on San Martino Island, Elba. A lithograph printed in two colors by Eugène Ciceroni according to instructions by André Durand, published in Paris by Lemercier and included in the well-known work “L’Ile d’Elbe album recueilli sous la direction de M. le Prince Anatole Demidoff, 1862”. The print is framed in the original handmade marbled cardboard in shades of green, and all is enclosed in a shaped rod in Siena yellow. The view mentioned was photographed from the village.

André Durand, a renowned illustrator and lithographer, as well as an archaeology expert, encouraged by the enthusiasm of Russian Prince Anatole Demidoff, published his first album containing 18 lithographs of picturesque views of Elba Island (in collaboration with Eugène Ciceroni). These are evocative works depicting the wild and partly unexplored island. Among them are external views of Portoferraio, Rio Marina, Marciana, as well as the Imperial Villa San Martino with the Napoleonic Museum founded by Prince Demidoff.

Below is the content of the announcement. On the left: André Durand del. In the center: Imperial Villa San Martino. Napoleon’s residence in 1814–1815, a general view drawn in 1852. On the right: lithograph by André Durand and Eugène Ciceroni.

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 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 key ones can be distinguished. Eclectic furniture refers to the 19th century, marked by the beloved Biedermeier style. Its early variations include neo-Gothic, Gothic, Rococo, Louis-Philippe style, and finally the English Victorian style. Toward the end of the century, these styles transition into pseudo-classicism, Renaissance, and Baroque styles.

Original 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 is associated with Louis XVI style, which also strongly references ancient architecture. Interesting and noteworthy are antique products in Rococo and Louis XV styles. Next is Baroque, a term derived from the Portuguese “barocco” — meaning irregularly developed pearl. These were highly decorative pieces designed to radiate splendor and serve a luxurious role. Unique, selectively used materials were employed to emphasize the grandeur of these items.

Today, we can observe how much the Baroque style influenced modern classical furniture, which is designed with a strong resemblance to the past era. An important style is also Renaissance, which flourished in the 15th and 16th centuries and left a significant mark on furniture-making art. Renaissance furniture was quite heavy and massive, using brown stains, cornices, sturdy bases, and reliefs. These products were quite distinctive but also opened new possibilities, such as the construction of cupboards and broadly speaking, chest furniture. They also reflected an interest in mythology and ancient times, with supports and legs taking animal forms.

Lion’s paws, eagle heads — these are common motifs 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 own 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. And this is ultimately crucial from the customer's perspective, as many counterfeits circulate on the market. Luxury Products provides a certificate confirming that the product matches the actual description and photograph. We have art appraisers, historians, and experts from around the world at your disposal.