News

Elegant Design: Windsor Chairs with Crinoline Stretchers Explained

By Mark Johnson on Nov 12, 2024

The crinoline stretcher is a unique and notable feature found in some Windsor chairs, especially those from the mid-to-late 19th century. This design element is named after the shape of a crinoline, which re...

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Arts & Crafts Reptile Design Copper Jugs

By Mark Johnson on Nov 10, 2024

Joseph Sankey & Sons Ltd. was established in 1854 in Bilston, Staffordshire, England. The company initially specialized in the production of metal wares, such as metal trays, vases, jugs, and other decorative items, often using copper and brass. They became particularly well known for their Art Nouveau and Arts and Crafts metalwork, which was characterized by organic and flowing designs.

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Oak Coffers influenced from the 19th century geometric designs

By Mark Johnson on Nov 09, 2024

Patterns and Carvings: Craftsmen often decorated oak coffers with patterns like diamonds, circles, and cross-hatching, which added a sense of depth and shadow, giving each piece a striking, architectural look.

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Windsor Ash And Elm Splat Back Armchair - Circa 1860-18890

By Mark Johnson on Nov 07, 2024

The Windsor Splatback Armchair is a classic chair style that became popular in England during the 18th and 19th centuries, characterized by a distinctive backrest design and sturdy craftsmanship. What we...

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Antique Walking Sticks - Their Charm And History

By Mark Johnson on Nov 06, 2024

Vernacular Folk Art Walking Sticks - This exceptional piece embodies the charm and functionality of traditional craftsmanship. This walking stick, often considered a prized collectible, merges the rustic simplicity of folk art with the durability required for daily use. 

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Windsor wheelback country chair - circa 1860

By Mark Johnson on Oct 21, 2024

These chairs were everywhere in the 19th century. From countryside cottages to local taverns and even middle-class homes, people loved them for their simplicity and durability. The armchair version was particularly popular for dining or just as a comfy chair to have around the house. Even though it was a functional piece, the decorative wheelback and well-turned legs gave it a bit of style.

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Antique Occasional Table Inlaid With Mother-Of-Pearl - Circa 1890

By Mark Johnson on Oct 20, 2024

This remarkable Syrian carved hardwood table is no exception, radiating elegance and history through its meticulously crafted features. From its elegantly curved legs to the intricate inlaid details, every inch of this table tells a story of artistry and reverence.

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Stoneware jardinière Westerwald, Germany - Circa 19th Century

By Mark Johnson on Oct 18, 2024

19th-century German Westerwald stoneware jardinières are a remarkable example of naturalistic design from the rich tradition of pottery in the Westerwald region of Germany, renowned for its distinct gray bod...

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Girandole Giltwood Pier Mirror - Edwardian Period Circa 1910

By Mark Johnson on Oct 17, 2024

This Edwardian girandole pier mirror showcases an exquisite blend of craftsmanship and detail. At its heart, the arched, beveled mirror is framed by an intricate foliate-carved border, with sunburst motifs adorning the upper corners.

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Rococo Mantle Mirrors - flamboyant design and very decorative

By Mark Johnson on Oct 16, 2024

Rococo is an 18th-century artistic and architectural style characterized by elaborate decoration, lightness, and a playful, often whimsical nature. Originating in France, it became a prominent style during the reign of Louis XV, spreading across Europe.

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Zanzibar Chests & Coffers - Their Origins History

By Mark Johnson on Oct 05, 2024

Brass Engraved & Studded Zanzibar Coffer Chests are distinctive, highly decorative wooden chests that originated in Zanzibar, an island off the coast of Tanzania. 

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The Creating & Engraving Techniques Used On Zanzibar Chests & Coffers

By Mark Johnson on Oct 03, 2024

Chasing involves the detailed engraving or imprinting of designs into metal (typically brass, in the case of Zanzibar chests). The word "chasing" comes from the French word chasser, meaning "to drive out," which reflects the way artisans work the metal surface to create design reliefs and textures. 

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