The Arts and Crafts movement began in England, but the offshoot Craftsman style thrived in Portland. Early in the 20th century, Portland was booming! That's apparent today thanks to the abundance of Craftsman-style homes here.It was a time when, Portland's population skyrocketed. By 1920, the city had more than doubled in size, with new neighborhoods … Continue reading Craftsman Style Homes: Portland’s Architectural Heritage
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
Recent sightings of fabulous furniture include a 19th-century mahogany game table with floral carving, a well-preserved secretary sold at auction, two machine-made 19th-century chairs and a functional GE Monitor Top refrigerator from 1927-1938. These items were found in Oregon, offering a glimpse into historical and aesthetic treasures.
The history of art, architecture, and furniture is defined by shifting styles, with influences from Craftsman, American Foursquare, and neoclassical designs. Neoclassical and traditional furniture styles grew in popularity alongside Craftsman styles. Newspaper ads from 1910 to 1938 illustrate the prevalence of these styles. However, little research is available on the revival furniture that proliferated.
If asked to describe an ideal antiquing destination, it would be a small town with historic buildings and a dozen or more individually owned shops. Drive about a half-hour south of Portland, Oregon, and after some twists and turns you could come across a town named Aurora. The green fields, 19th-century buildings, and surrounding town … Continue reading Antiquing at Its Best
Urban Art & Antiques 