Print of the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore from the 18th century

Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica by Giuseppe Vasi, drawn and engraved in the second half of the 18th century by Giuseppe Vasi (1710–1782), one of the most important view engravers in 18th-century Rome and a master of Piranesi. The view is a plate 48 from the fourth volume of Of the Magnificence of Ancient and Modern Rome, published in 1757. It was engraved on handmade paper and is in good condition. The lower legend describes the monumental breaches in the view: 1. Basilica Penitents' College; 2. Bell tower; 3. Sisters of Saint Filipina Monastery; 4. Basilica of Saint Mary Major presbytery. The image is in good condition, framed in a modern frame.

Exceptional 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 possess a specific character and soul. This 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 distinctive features.

Many styles characterize antique furniture, but a few are particularly prominent. Eclectic furniture belongs to the 19th century, during which the Biedermeier style was dominant. 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.

Original Empire-style furniture dates from the late 18th to early 19th century. It originated during Napoleon’s reign, which imposed a significant resemblance 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 an irregularly developed pearl. These were highly decorative pieces meant to radiate brilliance and play a significant role in luxury. 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 historical period. 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, moldings, sturdy bases, and reliefs. These products were quite distinctive but also opened new possibilities, such as the construction of credenzas and broadly speaking, chest-type furniture. They also drew inspiration from mythology and ancient times, with supports and legs often taking animal forms.

Lion 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 unique character. This is especially important when searching for a luxurious antique that suits your interior.

The key aspect of stylish antique furniture is originality. Ultimately, this is crucial from the customer’s perspective, as many counterfeit products circulate on the market. Luxury Products provides documentation confirming the product’s compliance with the actual description and photographs. We also have appraisers, art experts, historians, and specialists from around the world at your disposal.