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 of the view: 1. Basilica Penitents College; 2. Bell tower; 3. Sisters of Saint Filipina Monastery; Parish of Basilica of Saint Mary Major. 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 distinct 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 own distinctive features.

Many styles characterize antique furniture, but a few are particularly prominent. Eclectic furniture refers to the 19th century, marked by the beloved Biedermeier style. 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 strong resemblance and references to Roman and Greek ornamentation.

Neoclassical furniture is associated with Louis XVI style, which also draws heavily from ancient architecture. 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 shine with splendor 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 craftsmanship. Renaissance furniture was quite heavy and robust, often using brown stains, moldings, sturdy bases, and reliefs. These products were quite distinctive but also introduced new possibilities, such as the construction of credenzas and broadly speaking, chest-type furniture. During this period, mythology and ancient times were also of interest, so supports and legs often took 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 each country perceived furniture manufacturing differently, so each style had its own character in each nation. This is especially important when searching for a luxurious antique that suits your interior.

The most important aspect of stylish antique furniture is originality. Ultimately, this is crucial from the customer’s perspective, as many counterfeits circulate on the market. Luxury Products provides documentation confirming the product’s authenticity and compliance with the description and photos. We also have experts in art appraisal, historians, and specialists from around the world at your disposal.