Sketch for clothing patterns circa 1911. Drawn in ink and watercolor on paper

Sketch for clothing designs around 1911. Ink and watercolor drawing on paper of Belle Epoque costume models, circa 1911. It belongs to a group of 15 drawings, some of which date from 1911, and others are signed, like this one, which bears the signature Van Loo.

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

In fashion design, new collections are presented as handmade sketches before they are cut and sewn. The fashion designer first creates a figure, a feminine image, which reproduces the shape of the wearer, a realistically posed figure, perhaps set in a contemporary context, used to illustrate dresses with geometric motifs, suits with fur collars, hats, canes, shoes, and other accessories in detail. 

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

Beautiful 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. This is 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 prominent. Eclectic furniture originates from 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 evolved into pseudo styles of Classicism, Renaissance, and Baroque.

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 strong resemblance and references to Roman and Greek ornamentation.

Neoclassical furniture is associated with Louis XVI style, which also heavily references ancient architecture. Interesting and noteworthy are antique products in Rococo and Louis XV styles. Next is Baroque, a name derived from the Portuguese 'barocco'—meaning an irregularly developed pearl. These were highly ornate, representative pieces designed to radiate brilliance and serve a luxurious role. Unique materials were selectively used 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 past era. 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. It can certainly be said that these were quite specific products, but they also opened up many new possibilities, such as the construction of cupboards or broadly speaking, chest furniture. Additionally, mythology and ancient times were 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 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 own character in a given nation. This is especially important when searching for an exclusive antique that suits your interior.

The most important aspect of stylish antique furniture is originality. This is ultimately crucial from the buyer's perspective, as many counterfeits circulate on the market. Luxury Products provides a certificate confirming the product's compliance with the actual description and photograph. We have at your disposal art appraisers, historians, and experts from around the world.