Octagonal paperweight with geometric inserts

Octagonal paperweight button with geometric inlays made based on a panel with geometric inlays of various stones and glass paste, which help to outline an eight-pointed star in botticino. In the lower outer corner, there is a small plastered chip. Italy, early 20th century.

Exceptional antique furniture and accessories can be an excellent idea for decorating our interiors. Nowadays, there is an increasing number of enthusiasts of high-quality vintage items that have a distinct character and soul. It’s a nod to history, creation, 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 we can highlight a few of the most important. Eclectic furniture dates back to the 19th century, during the reign of the Biedermeier style. Its variants in the early years of this century include neo-Gothic, Gothic, Rococo, Louis-Philippe style, and finally the English Victorian style. By the end of the century, these styles transitioned into pseudo styles of classicism, Renaissance, and Baroque.

Empire-style furniture corresponds to the period between the late 18th and early 19th centuries. It originated from the reign of Napoleon, emphasizing similarities and references to Roman and Greek ornamentation.

Neoclassical furniture reflects the Louis XVI style, which also strongly references ancient architecture. Notable and worth mentioning are antique products in Rococo and Louis XV styles. 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 play a significant role in luxury. Materials were selectively chosen to further 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. An equally significant style is Renaissance. It flourished in the 15th and 16th centuries and also left a profound mark on furniture craftsmanship. Renaissance style was quite heavy and bulky. Brown stains, cornices, sturdy bases, and reliefs were commonly used. These products were quite distinctive but also opened new possibilities, such as the construction of credenzas and broadly speaking, chest furniture. Mythology and ancient times also inspired this style, with supports and legs taking animal forms.

Lion paws, eagle heads—these are common features in Renaissance-style furniture. Currently, many global brands reproduce such furniture, drawing inspiration from Italian and French artisans. 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 unique character in a given nation. This is especially important when searching for elegant antique pieces suitable for your interior.

The most important aspect of stylish antique furniture is originality. Ultimately, this matters most to buyers, as the market is flooded with counterfeits. Luxury Products provides a certificate confirming the product’s compliance with its description and photos. We also have appraisers, art experts, historians, and specialists from around the world at your disposal.