Sadeler - Circus Maximus from the 17th century

"Traces of Circus Maximus, which was so named because of its size, being larger than other circuses in Rome, and the mentioned Circus was built solely to celebrate various forms of games and hunts. People could sit to watch these games, as shown by the sign A in sign B, with the prison of sign C beneath the ground, a broken obelisk located in the middle of the aforementioned Circus D, and part of the lacus crabra, which today serves as a garden, leading E and Mount Aventine F the Palatine Hill." This view is taken from the series "Traces of Ancient Rome Tivoli Pozzuoli and other places," engraved by Sadeler, based on a series by the French artist Stefano Du Pérac, using etching and grotto techniques, in a reduced format on evenly laid paper. The work consists of 50 plates published by Marco Sadeler in 1606 in Prague, a very active cultural center, under the same title "Traces of Ancient Rome" with the same descriptions by Du Pérac in Italian, not mentioning the inventor. Sadeler, the court engraver of Rudolf II, traveled to Germany and Italy, staying in Rome in 1593. His works also include views "... Tivoli, Pozzuoli and other places," which are absent from these thirteen new plates, emphasizing the naturalistic aspect. In perfect condition, with wide margins, in a walnut wood frame.

This is one of the most important iconographic collections for avid travelers during the Grand Tour.

Elegant antique furniture and accessories can be an excellent idea for decorating our interiors. Today, there is an increasing number of enthusiasts for high-quality vintage items that have a defined character and soul. It 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 notable. Eclectic furniture dates back to the 19th century, during the reign of the Biedermeier style. Its early variations include neo-Gothic, Gothic, Rococo, Louis Philippe style, and finally the Victorian style. By the end of the century, these styles evolved into pseudo-classicism, Renaissance, and Baroque styles.

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

Neoclassical furniture reflects the Louis XVI style, which also strongly references ancient architecture. Antique products in Rococo and Louis XV styles are also interesting and noteworthy. Next is Baroque, a name derived from the Portuguese "barocco" — meaning an irregularly developed pearl. These were highly decorative pieces designed to radiate brilliance 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 important style is also Renaissance, which flourished in the 15th and 16th centuries and left a significant mark on furniture design. 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 cupboards and broadly speaking, chest furniture. Mythology and ancient times also inspired these designs, 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 is 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 elegant antiques suitable for your interior.