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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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Arts & Crafts Brass Table Lamp - Circa 1900-1920

By Mark Johnson on Sep 28, 2024

A solid brass Arts & Crafts table lamp, cast in the unique shape of a hendecagon. The eleven-sided brass base features a beautiful floral pattern framed by a sturdy border, with each section adorned ...

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Folk Art Furniture - European Styles Influences

By Mark Johnson on Sep 27, 2024

Folk art painting on furniture in Europe is a rich and diverse tradition, reflecting the history, culture, and everyday life of the regions where it developed.

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Gothic Painted Pine Hall Bench - Circa 1880-1900's

By Mark Johnson on Sep 26, 2024

Imagine seeing this in your home! What a talking point and so useful. A well-worn and character-rich painted hall bench, showcasing beautiful Gothic-style fretwork on the angled backrest, dating from the lat...

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Cast Iron Doorstop Of A Cat - Circa 1910s

By Mark Johnson on Sep 26, 2024

A charming and practical piece of furniture designed to prevent doors from slamming, this item could also have been displayed as a decorative fireside ornament believed to ward off evil spirits.

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Folk art coffers, chests, and storage pieces

By Mark Johnson on Sep 22, 2024

In the 18th century, chests and coffers were essential household items, primarily used for storing valuables, clothing, and linens...

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