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
New Year's Day is a good time to take down the Christmas tree — out with the old! It's not convincing that you have to keep it until the Epiphany - trees have nothing to do with it. New Year's is also a time for "in with the old" and so the year both ended … Continue reading Aurora of the New Year: Antiques and an Auction
I am not sure I have ever seen Freeman's auction so packed with furniture. Today's American Furniture, Silver, Decorative & Folk Arts auction in Philadelphia featured an array in styles and quality, providing insights into market strengths. The highlight for me was an architect's desk once owned by Declaration of Independence signer Charles Carroll. Irish … Continue reading Some Results from Freeman’s
Coinciding with Winterthur’s reopening this spring, the museum will host the 11th annual Sewell C. Biggs Winterthur Furniture Forum, Furniture in the South: Makers & Consumers, on March 1 and 2. An array of scholars and specialists, including distinguished curators from Winterthur, will lead two days of fascinating lectures and workshops focusing on southern regional … Continue reading Winterthur Furniture Forum Highlights Southern Furniture
The 2011 Theta Charity Antiques Show in Houston will have a special display of items from the Texas Governor's Mansion. For the first time since the devastating fire in 2008, the mansion will release a collection of fine and decorative arts to display at this year’s show. Jane Karotkin, Texas Governor’s Mansion Curator/Administrator of Friends … Continue reading 59th Annual Theta Show to Feature Collections from Texas Governor’s Mansion
Urban Art & Antiques 