The term "Empire" in American Empire furniture refers to the style's origins and inspirations from the French Empire style, which was prominent during the reign of Napoleon Bonaparte (1804-1815). The French Empire style itself drew from classical Greek and Roman design elements, characterized by grandeur, opulence, and a sense of authority. When this style made … Continue reading Collecting American Empire Furniture: Tips and Insights
From Sri Lanka the Sunday Observer reports that archaeologists may have uncovered the remains of Lisa Gherardini, better known as the woman who posed for the Mona Lisa. The remains are being recovered from beneath the floor of a convent in Florence, Italy. Lisa Gherardini, known as Lisa del Giocondo in Italy, became a nun after her husband's death … Continue reading Remains of Model For Mona Lisa May Have Been Found in Italian Convent
The man who says he discovered the work of currently celebrated photographer Vivian Maier also says her best work has not been seen yet. Chicago resident Ron Slattery says he noticed a box of photographs in an auction there and would go on to buy two more lots containing Maier's work. "At the first auction, … Continue reading Chicago Collector Recalls First Box of Vivian Maier Photos
An exhibit that closed January 3 at the University of Michigan Museum of Art Beginning will move to the Dallas Museum of Art for a February 21 opening. The landmark exhibition exploring the influential and profound relationship between photographers and painters who lived and worked along the Normandy coast in France during the mid-19th century. … Continue reading Dallas Exhibit Looks at Dialogue between Photographers and Impressionist Painters
Urban Art & Antiques 