Models of costumes from the early 20th century drawn in ink and watercolor on paper

Drawings of clothing from the early 20th century. Ink and watercolor sketches on paper of costume models from the early 20th century, depicting two women in elegant Liberty dresses. Part of a collection of 15 drawings, some of which are dated and signed.

The elegance of these incredible silhouettes is particularly noteworthy, brought to life by the decisive and confident features of a fashion designer, a professional of the era. The drawing comes from a private Milanese residence and is in perfect condition. The sheet is unmounted and unframed. 

In fashion design, new projects are presented as hand-drawn sketches before they are cut and sewn. The fashion designer first creates a figure, a female image, which reproduces the shape of the wearer—a realistic-looking figure, perhaps posed within a contemporary context, used to illustrate details such as fur inserts, fur-trimmed coats, geometric motifs, suits, hats, shoes, and accessories. 

These sophisticated designs in Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles, as well as very rare and collectible pieces, are perfect for studio decor. They reflect an elegant, affluent world full of perspectives and help recreate the fascinating transformations that took place in fashion at that time, where women's fashion, reflecting women's emancipation, adapted to more functional and sporty clothing.

Elegant antique furniture and accessories can be an excellent idea for interior decoration. Currently, there is a growing number of enthusiasts for high-quality vintage items that have a distinct character and soul. It’s a nod to history, craftsmanship, and the creation 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 notable. Eclectic furniture belongs to the 19th century, during which the Biedermeier style was predominant. Its early 20th-century variants 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.

Empire-style furniture and accessories date from the period between the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Everything was influenced by Napoleon’s reign, which imposed a resemblance to Roman and Greek decorative motifs.

Neoclassical furniture reflects the Louis XVI style, which also draws heavily from ancient architecture. Noteworthy are antique products in Rococo and Louis XV styles. The next is Baroque, whose name derives from the Portuguese 'barocco'—meaning an irregularly developed pearl. These were highly representative pieces designed to radiate glamour and serve a significant role in luxury. Rarely used materials were chosen to further emphasize the grandeur of these items.

Today, we can observe how strongly the Baroque style influenced modern classic furniture, which is often designed with a resemblance to the historical period. The Renaissance style, flourishing in the 15th and 16th centuries, also left a significant mark on furniture design. Renaissance furniture was quite heavy and solid, often using brown stains, with moldings, sturdy bases, and relief decorations. These products were quite distinctive but 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 often taking animal forms.

Lion’s paws, eagle heads—these are common motifs in Renaissance style. Currently, many global brands reproduce 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 each country perceived furniture production differently, so each style had its unique character in each nation. This is especially important when seeking an exclusive antique piece suitable for your interior.