Happy October! Wishing all a great Halloween.
Have you ever noticed that some antique French furnishings may bear a resemblance to antique Italian furnishings? This is because of the Italian influence of a designer King Louis XIV of France used.
Did you know that antiques don’t have to only be for inside your home? Depending on what’s in our inventory when you come in, we may have a selection of antique bird baths, garden equipment and tools.
Alamitos Antiques, sidewalk sale Sept. 25 & 26.
Did you know that one common type of French furniture is known as a "settee?" This elongated armchair accommodates two or more people and was developed in the 17th century.
Chippendale furniture can be classified into three types: French, Chinese, and Gothic influences. The American style was influenced by Queen Anne furniture and featured ornate legs and scroll backs. Chippendale’s designs were first published in 1754.
It’s important to remember that there’s a stark difference between having old items and having antique items in your possession. If you aren’t sure whether the items you have are worth selling, we’re always happy to help you evaluate their worth.
Many antique woodblock prints were originally printed in books. After the printing press was invented, the printing blocks were often cut to the same thickness as the type, which allowed the text and a carved woodblock illustration to be printed as one impression.
Do you know how to recognize antique Eames furniture? Many of their pieces have paper labels or stickers on them, which vary depending on the year and article of furniture. However, they will usually be colored red, cream, or black and say “Charles Eames.”
The French designer of glass and furniture, Emile Galle, was influence by the French Art Nouveau movement that took hold around the turn of the twentieth century. His glassware, in turn, came to influence Louis Comfort Tiffany in the U.S.
Woodblock prints created by German Expressionist artists are extremely valuable and highly collectible. Produced in the early 20th century, their works were bold, dramatic and emulated the roughly hewn appearance of Medieval woodcuts.
When you are purchasing antique furniture for your home, ask yourself what look you are going for. For example, if you want a rustic look, try a comfortable French Country sofa. Or, if you are looking into a sleeker design, try something like dramatic Art Deco stools.
Happy Turkey day!
Antiques in excellent condition are usually extremely valuable, especially if they are more than 100 years old. However, keep in mind that it is normal for an antique to have some signs of wear, such as scratches, dings, chips, or cracks.
Did you know that in the year 1291, the Venetian government banned glass furnaces from central Venice due to fire concerns? Glassmakers – and their furnaces – were moved to the island of Murano and shortly thereafter the famous Murano glass was born.
Some might imagine antique art as being simply old. But some of today’s popular styles of décor might actually integrate even some of those “old fashioned” pieces of art. Why not check out a great gallery to see what might be available?
Do you long for quality craftsmanship that you just can’t find on most mass-produced pieces of furniture? If you want furniture that could be a work of art, consider checking out what we have in stock.
Antique French furnishings have been a passion for antique furniture collectors all over the world. Antique French furnishings can add warmth, character, and a touch of elegance to the rooms they adorn.
Antique paintings or prints should always be hung in a place that offers the print the greatest amount of protection. The spot should not be too damp or too dry, near a heating source like a fireplace or radiator, or in direct sunlight.
In 2011, an Oklahoma man brought a collection of 18th century Chinese cups made from rhinoceros horns to Asian arts expert Lark Mason. He appraised the 5-piece set and estimated it to be worth $1.5 million!
Many art experts draw a firm dividing line between the emergence of Art Deco and the Edwardian and Victorian periods that preceded it. Works produced prior to the 1920s are viewed as antique, while Art Deco pieces are classified as collectible.
Although it’s possible to purchase antique items from individuals online, there’s no substitute for being able to see it in person first. When you buy from us, you’ll also know you’re always getting what you think you are.
French furniture from the Art Deco period features elegant and sophisticated forms characterized by bold, geometric designs. Exotic woods and new finishes, as well as materials containing metals, were quite common.
Do you know why most European porcelain marks on antique china are cobalt blue? In the early years of porcelain production, this was one of two known pigments that could withstand the high firing temperature.
