London in June!
Dear Diva Readers,
top: 5px; float: left; color: white; background: #781300; border: 1px solid darkkhaki; font-size: 60px; line-height: 50px; padding-top: 1px; padding-right: 5px; font-family: times;”>While spring is just now arriving, it’s time to start thinking about June here at The Antiques Diva & Co! June is fair month for arts and antiques in London where all month long beautiful art and antiques are celebrated. With so much going on, we always turn to our UK Diva Agent’s website Antiques News & Fairs which tells a bit about each fair and provides the necessary information for attending. It’s great to combine these fairs with going on the road and hitting the small shops and large warehouses, which is why every June is jammed packed with Antique Buying Tours in England! We’ve got access to trade days, preview parties in the city, and then can take you to our secret sources in the countryside as well… call it a Town & Country Tour! Just to whet your appetite, below are a few of our favorite antiques fairs happening in London this June. Mark your calendars darlings.
ton.com/international-fairs/21/fair_pages/art-antiques-london” target=”_blank”>Art Antiques London
The Albert Memorial and Kensington Gardens once again provide the stunning backdrop to one of London’s most exciting and glamorous art and antique fairs. From June 12 to 18, the lovely bespoke pavilion opposite the Royal Albert Hall and close to the site of the Great Exhibition of 1851 Art Antiques London plays host to leading international dealers and discerning visitors from all over the world, who can buy with confidence at this strictly vetted sumptuous summer showcase for the arts.
If quality art and antiques are what you’re looking for, this fair definitely delivers! And who wouldn’t want to shop for special pieces on the grounds of Kensington Gardens? Very Diva-worthy!
Salvo Fair
Salvo Fair, Britain’s largest Architectural Salvage Fair, brings together dealers from the UK, Europe, and beyond. It takes place Saturday and Sunday June 18-19 with a trade day on Friday June 17 at Fawley Hill, Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire. This will be the fifteenth year for the fair, which attracts some of the best interior designers, architects, builders, developers, and dealers to shop for architectural salvage. This legendary fair is also frequented by celebrities and billionaires, looking for the perfect pieces of antique garden art, sculpture, and reclaimed materials.
Just a taste of what one can expect to find at Salvo Fair includes: Fireplaces, chimneypieces, doors, windows, radiators, statuary, seats, urns, troughs, tubs, garden, sundials, birdbaths, pergola, rose arches, railway sleepers, furniture, bathrooms, baths, basins, taps, toilets, tiles, brassware, knobs, handles, knockers, hinges, balls, finials, chairs, pews, altars, lecterns, stained glass, staircases, spirals, flooring, parquet, woodblock, floorboards, bricks, pavers, flagstones, york stone coping, pediments, balustrade, timber, oak pine, marble, trusses, beams, columns, pilasters, portico, cornice, dado, skirting, roof tiles, slates, ironwork, gates, railings, lighting, lamposts, kitchens, kitchenalia, sinks, post boxes, telephone boxes, cartwheels, shopfittings, butchers block, and shingles.
The Art & Antiques Fair, Olympia- Summer Session
The Art & Antiques Fair, Olympia celebrates it’s 44th edition with a showcase of 160 of the world’s leading specialist dealers. This fair is always a treat as first time buyers rub shoulders with seasoned collectors and connoisseurs. While this fair is considered one of the most prestigious fixtures in London’s summer season, it also has strong international ties, particularly with America. A social as well as cultural experience, Olympia attracts a strong US VIP following, with guests in recent years including Oprah Winfrey, Dustin Hoffmann and Kanye West.
Taking place June 27 to July 3 at Hammersmith Road, W14 8UX, London, this fair is loved by collectors, interior designers and those looking for exceptional pieces for stylish interiors. The Fair offers the finest array of objects drawn from antiquity to the present day. Every item for sale is checked by a team of experts to ensure quality and authenticity before the Fair opens to the public – enabling you to buy with confidence. Buyers looking for one-of-a-kind and high quality pieces—this is the fair for you!
Masterpiece
From June 30 to July 6, the renowned English antiques fair Masterpiece in London will occupy the South Grounds of The Royal Hospital Chelsea. Offering museum quality pieces, this fair is one of the best in Europe, often compared to a smaller TEFAF http://www.tefaf.com
Because the fair is not segregated, it makes for an exciting experience to shop the fair – Russian jewels are in stalls next to English Folk Art opposite a stall filled with Neo-Classical busts. Each turn of the neck gives an experience to another land, another time. A bonus is that we’ve got VIP tickets to the preview party!
All this talk has me excited for the London antique season! If any of these fairs perk your interest, email us at info@antiquesdiva.com. Now is the time to book an Antiques Diva UK Tour for June— the perfect time to hit the popular world-renown fairs and also to comb the countryside for treasures from our secret sources! Keep up to date to see fair details and other events on the calendar at Antiques News & Fairs website and we’ll look forward to seeing you in London in June!
Cheers,
The Antiques Diva®
Sourcing Tuscan Pots From Estates
Dear Diva Readers,
top: 5px; float: left; color: white; background: #781300; border: 1px solid darkkhaki; font-size: 60px; line-height: 50px; padding-top: 1px; padding-right: 5px; font-family: times;”>For hundreds of years the best terracotta in the world has come out of Tuscany. From floor tiles and roof tiles to sculptures and decorative pieces, the Italians have used their natural resources along with an artistic perspective to craft exceptional products which are known worldwide. Perhaps the most popular terracotta items associated with Tuscany are the pots and jars which often grace Italian gardens. Originally, these were created from the rich clay of the surrounding hills for agricultural use. They were used for storing water and olive oil, and after being left exposed to the elements, these pots developed a rich patina which makes them perfect decorative items today whether you own a Tuscan villa or a ranch home in suburban USA.
Italian terracotta pieces from Impruneta and Siena are arguably the best, as the land in these areas is naturally rich in iron, copper, calcium, and aluminum. Clay from Impruneta is a rich red color blue to the concentration of iron in the earth, while the crete Sienese is a softer yellow color due to the gray clay in that area.
Terracotta has been made from the earth in these Tuscan hills since Etruscan times—before Christ—and the tradition continues today. The hard gray earth is mined, then ground into a powder which is mixed with water to make the coarse bodied clay. After it’s put through the firing process which helps it withstand extreme temperatures, the clay develops a pale terracotta color. Clay from Impruneta is higher in iron than clay from Siena, and the resulting terracotta from Siena is more refined which gives it a smoother texture. Although terracotta from both regions can withstand cold temperatures, it is wise to shelter them in extreme winter climates where temperatures drop below 10 degrees fahrenheit.
Traditionally, olive jars are glazed on the inside and have a very distinctive shape. The large oval bodies taper at the base, which allowed the jars to be stored upright in clay or metal rings and also in wood braces aboard ships when they were being transported. Many of these olive jars also have handles at the top. Olive oil must be stored in a cool dark place in order to preserve it, therefore the jars made perfect sense. Since they are fashioned from fired-earth, they make ideal planters today and that is what many people use them for. Due to their shapely bodies and lovely patina, they can also stand alone in a garden, grouped in threes or flanking a pathway.
When searching for antique terracotta pots it’s important to note any details or markings. Antique pots usually have the name of the kiln and the estate for which they were made, often with the family crest!
Decoration on large pots are rare as these were created as functional pieces, but the agrumi pots are often adorned with swags. These pots were traditionally placed on pedestals in formal gardens during the summer, then rolled into the “limonia” during the winter.
When clients come on an Antiques Diva Tour in Tuscany, they often find terracotta pots to use indoors as well. Large or small, simple or ornately sculpted, these pots make perfect decorative accents. Our Diva Guide can also take you to small potteries which dot the Tuscan countryside between Florence and Siena. These artisans often have original molds which they can make replicas from, giving you the option to purchase matching sets of pots which can be harder to find if you’re looking for antique pots. However, several of our antique sources have antique pots from Italian estates just waiting for a new home. Their crusty exterior, aged by years of use and exposure to the elements make these vintage and antique pots all the more desirable!
When a Tuscan estate goes up for sale, there is often a house-clearing sale. This is the best time to find antique terracotta jars and pots! They are often tucked away in corners of the villas or stored in out buildings and haven’t seen the light of day in years. These forgotten treasures can be plucked from obscurity and given new life by the discerning customer with a keen eye. But how can you find these house-clearing sales and what do you do if you are only in Tuscany for a few days? And most importantly, how do you get these pieces home? That’s where we come in. Through our Buying Service, we can help you source these pieces and liaise you with a shipper to get them home sweet home. Our Diva Guides are constantly on the go, shopping in stores, warehouses, private estate sales, and flea markets, covering urban and rural areas, and can take your shopping list with them, being your eyes and ears on the ground. Whether you’re searching for a few pieces or want to fill an entire container, we’ve got you covered.
Ciao for now,
The Antiques Diva®
Making Lamps From Architectural Fragments
Dear Diva Readers,
top: 5px; float: left; color: white; background: #781300; border: 1px solid darkkhaki; font-size: 60px; line-height: 50px; padding-top: 1px; padding-right: 5px; font-family: times;”>In a world full of mass produced pieces, antiques offer uniqueness and character to interiors. Flip through any design magazine and you’ll see that almost every stylish room incorporates some sort of antique or vintage items. It’s no surprise then, that many large retailers offer reproductions of antiques, making certain styles available to the masses, including reinterpretations of furniture, accessories, rugs, and even lighting. Still, we are seeing an increase in demand for one-of-a-kind objects that people can use to imbue their homes with personality. One of our top requests is for architectural salvage, whether people are coming on tour or utilizing our buying services. However they aren’t always using the salvaged pieces in traditional ways. From private clients to shop owners to interior designers, many creative people are sourcing architectural fragments and turning them into very special lamps—and we LOVE that idea!
Lamps from Alexandra available here: http://bit.ly/1RnbkAp
Of course you can find mass produced reproductions of these architectural fragment lamps from companies like Pottery Barn, Crate & Barrel, and West Elm, but there is something about having your own made from original antique architectural pieces that takes the lighting game to a whole other level. With it’s rich history of architecture, Europe is the perfect place to source unique fragments. Our Diva Guides often take clients to flea markets where they find one-off pieces such as finials, scrollwork from an old section of boiserie, or even corbels from grand houses which have been renovated. These pieces are just waiting for a creative genius to come along and give them new life. Mounted to a lucite base, a chippy gilt wood fragment topped by linen shade becomes a sculptural lamp with one foot in the past and the other in the present.
Lamps from Alexandra available here: http://bit.ly/1WIJUpQ
While flea markets and shops can be ideal for finding a few treasures, clients who are looking to buy in bulk need to go to the countryside. Several of our sources in Provence specialize in architectural salvage and reclaimed materials. These warehouses are the perfect places to find loads of hand carved architectural fragments that would not only look great as table lamps, but also as floor lamps! Imaging a set of columns from an old hotel transformed into a matching pair of lamps! Why not have beautifully carved corbels and brackets made into sconces? When you look at lamps as more than functions, they become sculpture and statuary as well. The possibilities are endless.
Lamp from Skelton St. John available here: http://bit.ly/1OuJfCC
Once you get your architectural fragments home, it’s good to entrust a local lamp shop to help wire and transform your pieces into lamps. Remember there are countless options when it comes to bases including lucite, iron, brass, wood, or even marble. Select a lamp shade that works with your lamp-base and voila! You’ve got a very special one-of-a-kind lamp that has character and a story. In a cookie cutter world, having a custom piece really helps to make a space stand out from the rest. Since every home needs lighting, why not think outside the box and go with something that is sure to make your home stylish and chic?
Lamps from Alexandra available here: http://bit.ly/1mXAuL2
If you would like information on our Antiques Diva Buying Tours which operate in 8 different countries—France, Italy, England, Sweden, Germany, Belgium, Holland & Denmark- email us at info@antiquesdiva.com. We’d love to custom plan a private antiques buying tour for you. If you can’t come to Europe but still want us to source antiques on your behalf, our Buying Services are the ideal solution. You simply give us your personal shopping list, and we act as your man on the ground, sending you images and prices until you choose the perfect pieces. Send us an email to discuss your options! Your dream of sourcing antiques in Europe just might be easier than you think!
Lamp from Watkins Culver available here: http://bit.ly/1VEj6H9
Until next time,
The Antiques Diva®
L’isle Sur la Sorgue
Dear Diva Readers,
top: 5px; float: left; color: white; background: #781300; border: 1px solid darkkhaki; font-size: 60px; line-height: 50px; padding-top: 1px; padding-right: 5px; font-family: times;”>When I say, “Antiquing in France,” what images come into your mind? Waking in the wee hours of the morning and driving through the countryside to get first dibs on flea market finds? Perusing brocantes as far as the eye can see, bargaining in French with vendors who sip coffee as they arrange their wares? Popping into a boulangerie for a pick-me-up of croissant then dashing across the street to a warehouse filled with antiques of all ages and styles? What if I told you there is a place where you can do all these things and more… in the same day? The Mecca. The Mother Land. The village of L’Isle Sur la Sorgue in Provence – which happens to house the second largest permeant flea market in France (after the Paris Flea Market).
The town centers around the Sorgue River in Provence between Avignon and Apt. Cutting through the town the river has always been an important part of L’Isle Sur la Sorgue. In the 12th century, it provided the main product of the area— fish but by the 18th century, large water wheels were added to the canals, generating power for the silk and paper industries. Today, the town is knows for antiques shops and markets, with the river flowing down two main channels in the town, creating an enchanting atmosphere as many shops and cafes are perched directly on the water.
When we take clients to L’Isle Sur la Sorgue, we always go on market day. Arriving in the morning, you witness the flea market setting up along the river for several kilometers. Here is where you can find a wide variety of items all at different price points. If you’re looking for smaller antiques, this is where you should really hunt. The dealers comb the countryside in search of estate sales and house clearings, and often spend a lot of time restoring pieces they purchase. It is often worth the time to engage these dealers in conversation, as many of them have warehouses and workshops nearby and may invite you to come to their homes later. If you’re in the market for a specific piece, they may be able to source it for you.
After perusing the market, we head across the street and begin shopping the long line of antique stores. Many two-story buildings line both sides of the main street in town and house every type of style you could imagine. From Roman antiquities to 18th century furniture, to art deco and beyond—it’s all there! When it’s time to refuel, the bakeries are to die for, and you can even purchase some sweet treats specific to Provence like callison or glace fruit.
A favorite area of town is tucked behind a row of buildings, only accessible through a gate and a small passage—if you didn’t know it was there, you’d probably pass right by! These hidden corners are our specialty on tours. Once through the passage, you come upon several buildings and stalls that sell French garden antiques. Statues, zinc, watering cans, iron gates, and planters wait to be discovered and it always seems clients gasp when they come around the corner for the first time!
While this may sound like a nice relaxing day, don’t be fooled! There are over 300 antique outlets and flea markets in the old mills of this village, so be sure to rest up and wear comfortable walking shoes! If you’re looking for something specific or a certain style of antique, it’s important to tell your Diva Guide. She knows many of the vendors and can help navigate the weaving streets and buildings, getting you right where you need to be to find that perfect piece you’re looking for.
If you would like information on booking an Antiques Diva Provence Tour, email us at info@antiquesdiva.com. We’d love to take you to this special village and even to the countryside beyond!
Au revoir,
The Antiques Diva®
Sweden- Antiques and More
Dear Diva Readers,
top: 5px; float: left; color: white; background: #781300; border: 1px solid darkkhaki; font-size: 60px; line-height: 50px; padding-top: 1px; padding-right: 5px; font-family: times;”>We get all types of inquiries here at The Antiques Diva & Co. Some clients are on a mission to fill a container full of antiques, as they want to stock their store while other clients are tourists who are planning trips to Europe and simply want to spend a day or two antiquing as they hunt for perfectly packable souvenirs. While all of our clients are interested in antiques most of them also want to take advantage of their time in Europe and explore the countries and cultures that are at their fingertips. Sweden is one of our most popular tour destinations, as it is home to some of the most incredible antiques. But it also has a lot to offer as a travel destination. The mere mention of Sweden conjures up images of snow capped mountains, reindeer wandering through green forests, and charming country cottages that seem to come straight out of fairytales. While Sweden is a large country, there’s something special to see and do no matter what part of Sweden you visit.
If you’re planning a trip to Sweden, one place you must go is Stockholm. Take our Antiques Diva Guide Daniel Larsson’s advice and visit the only town in the world where you can go swimming in fresh water! The City of Stockholm is situated on fourteen islands and on the banks to the archipelago where Lake Malaren meets the Baltic Sea. The city centre is virtually situated on the water. In the summertime you can go island-hopping by taking an archipelago boat from Strömkajen in front of the Grand Hotel, Nybrokajen or Stadshuskajenoutside the City Hall (Stadshuset).
In the South of Sweden, Stenshuvud (translated as “Sten’s Head”) National Park should definitely be on your list of must-see places. The park is named for the over 300 foot high hill on the coast which resembles a head. From the famous hill you get a fantastic view of the Baltic Sea, over to the Danish island Bornholm. If you’re a nature lover, this is the ideal place to take an adventurous walk and also a dip in the sea.
In the West, visit the Bohuslän coast and the province of Västra Götaland. This area of Sweden and its archipelago are known for their delicious oysters, lobster, and prawns. In the quaint fishing village of Grebbestad you can take an eco-friendly “seafood safari” and then enjoy you catch at Everts Sjobod, a restored 19th century boathouse. Continue the marine theme by going to Sweden’s first national marine park, Kosterhavet National Park in the Koster Islands. There you can enjoy the coastline of beaches and rocky islands along with Sweden’s only coral reef.
In the North, there are so many things to do! From November to April you can see the Northern Lights at Abisko National Park. The Sarek National Park is filled with high alpine peaks, valleys, and foaming rivers, perfect for the nature lover. In fact, anyone who loves the great outdoors should definitely aim to visit the north of Sweden. With plenty of opportunity to get off the beaten path, it’s a must see region!
If you’re planning a trip to Sweden, why not enjoy the nature as well as the antiques? We offer 1/2 day, 1 day, and 2 day tours to antique dealers that specialize in furniture and decorative items. We take our clients to various types of antique dealers, from smaller shops with beautiful settings to big trade dealers with large warehouses. We also have access to secret sources such as one dealer that has restored a beautiful mansion to it’s original glory and has filled it with the highest quality antiques—truly like shopping in a museum.
For more information on our Swedish Tours, email us at info@antiquesdiva.com.
Happy trails,
The Antiques Diva®
Mid Century in Florence
Dear Diva Readers,
top: 5px; float: left; color: white; background: #781300; border: 1px solid darkkhaki; font-size: 60px; line-height: 50px; padding-top: 1px; padding-right: 5px; font-family: times;”>In most people’s minds, the phrase “Antiquing in Tuscany,” conjures up images of rustic Italian furniture, perfectly patinated terra cotta pots, hand forged wrought iron, and some of the best architectural salvage on the planet. However savvy Mid Century Modern lovers know that mid 20th century pieces also abound in Italy if you know where to look. Just as Italy revived its position as a fashion mecca in the 20th century (think Florence and Milan), so too it produced some of the greatest mid century furniture that is still highly sought after today. Though of course there are the well known names; (Paolo Buffa, Ico Parisi, Osvaldo Borsani etc…), that are sought after , it’s not neccessarily the names that count. There are so many unknown or lesser known furniture designers that possess the same quality, design, style & panache that Italy is known for– but it’s all in the detail!
If you’re looking for mid century pieces, Florence is the place to go. When we have clients who are mad about mid century, we recommend that they stay in Florence and spend at least one day exploring the shops in the city and another day or two with our Diva Guide in the countryside. There are some extraordinary stores in the city that offer the best of the best vintage inventory. Dashing from shop to shop through tight streets and alleyways is always a thrill, and learning about specific pieces from the very knowledgable dealers is a treat any enthusiast would love.
As with anything however, prices in the city are higher than in more rural areas. In fact, many high-quality dealers in Florence source their inventory in the countryside… and we know where their sources are! That’s why we always recommend taking at least one day with our Diva Guide to go to these sources, as she knows exactly where to go to find the best pieces at the best prices!
After driving a short distance outside of Florence, there are several exits off the main highway that lead to different mid century shops and warehouses. Many of these places are by appointment only and have new inventory constantly coming in. These are the dealers who specialize in house-clearings and have first access to estate sales so their stock is often fresh and unique!
If Cary Grant and Katherine Hepburn shared a house, this is where they would shop! Everything from vintage chairs upholstered in velvet with sexy silhouettes to ultra modern plastic furniture can be found in these off the beaten path warehouses. If you have a thing for buttery leather upholstery and brass feet, then this is where you want to be! Rows upon rows of sleek dining chairs from the 1950s-1970s fill attics and basements while chrome and brass light fixtures illuminate the space.
Mid century mirrors are quite popular right now and there is no shortage of them in Italy. Minimalist shapes with an organic feel, mid century mirrors blend well into most interiors. Brass frames in the style of Gio Ponti abound and polished wood or lacquered frames are all popular choices.
It’s also good to note that if you’re looking for something specific, these dealers can most likely find it. Our Buying Service allows you to give us a list of what you’re after and we’ll canvas all our sources until we find the pieces you want, then send you photos, information, and prices. This is an excellent way of getting first dibs on unique pieces that otherwise would probably have ended up in the shops in Florence for a much higher price!
If you would like more information on taking an Antiques Diva Buying Tour or on our Buying Services, email us at info@antiquesdiva.com.
The Antiques Diva®
Antiques Diva Styles a Diva Den for Chairish
Dear Diva Readers,
top: 5px; float: left; color: white; background: #781300; border: 1px solid darkkhaki; font-size: 60px; line-height: 50px; padding-top: 1px; padding-right: 5px; font-family: times;”>Last year I was asked by my friends at Chairish to create a style board for a room inspired by one of their vintage rugs. For those of you who don’t know, Chairish is a curator-approved online marketplace for vintage and used furniture. This year they’ve challenged me to design a “woman cave” inspired by a tools?sort=” target=”_blank”>set of vintage bar stools from their site! As I believe that antiques and vintage pieces are completely relevant in today’s lifestyle, I’ve chosen to create a style board using only antique and vintage items available at Chairish.com— but rest assured the vibe is anything but old fashioned and stuffy! Without further ado, I give you my “Diva Den!”
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Mid-Century Hairpin Barstools
I chose these barstools as my inspiration because I love the shape of them and brass is very “in.” I would recover these beauties in a gray velvet…yummy!
19th Century Style Giltwood Gondola Chaise Lounge
A beautiful 1890s French chaise lounge in the Louis XVI style would be the perfect foil to the midcentury barstools. The chaise has been newly upholstered in a Stark velvet, “Velours verdi Bois de Rose”with French multicolored gimp trim all along the frame. The single down cushion is also newly upholstered with a single piping along the edges, top and bottom. This chaise has nicely gilded wood, six legs and caster wheels—the perfect spot for a Diva to perch!
Charcoal and Cream Chairs
I would use this pair of matching round back Louis style armchairs upholstered in a charcoal and white wide stripe in the same seating group as the chaise lounge. The wood has been refinished in a semi-gloss heirloom white bringing some lightness to my Diva Den!
Baker Dining Table by Barbara Barry
As strange as it may seem, I would include this Baker dining table by Barbara Barry in Java colored finish in my Diva Den. I love to cook and even more, I love to host dinner parties! Setting a gorgeous table for my girlfriends would be a highlight to using my Diva Den!
Swedish Flame Birch Dining Chairs-Set of 6
This set of six fun and elegant dark golden flame birch dining chairs would be perfect surrounding my dining table. Newly restored and newly rebuilt with new padding, covered in a durable woven black and ivory Cheetah stripe fabric, makes them Diva-approved!
Arthur Court Gold Aluminum Cast Lily Dining Table
This is an original gilt Arthur Court aluminum cast Lily table. The top of the base resembles a lily flower to support a glass top, while the bottom of the base swirls around to resemble an art nouveau inspired stem. It is an unusual piece and is oh-so-very glam! I wouldn’t use it as a dining table, but rather a side table between two chairs. This table comes with a 36″ round glass top, 3/8” thick, making it the perfect size to hold a stack of books and a couple martinis!
Mid Century Black & White Striped Chair
On one side of my lily table, I’d use this Mid-century tufted black and ivory striped accent chair. It’s been totally refurbished with new foam padding and back and cream linen fabric with double welt all around. Carved wood trim has been stripped and waxed to let the gorgeous grain show through. The perfect chair to sit and have a long conversation with another Diva!
Aesthetic Movement Chair
This chair speaks for itself and would go on the other side of my lily table. I love this because it’s unique and fitting for a sassy lady!
Gilt Faux Rope & Tassel Bar Cart
Who doesn’t need a 1960’s Italian gilded iron rope and tassel bar cart? With two glass shelves, it’ll hold plenty of spirits which can be wheeled over from the main bar!
Jonathan Adler Lucite Acrylic Brass Etagere
Bring on the tough glamour. The Jacques Collection creates a bold balance of masculine lines and feminine finishes. The étagère mixes the jewel-like sparkle of custom-tooled brushed brass with Lucite construction. The result is modern decor with an heirloom-level of quality. It’s perfect for displaying books and other favorite curiosities.
tom-greene-chandelier” target=”_blank”>Brutalist Tom Greene Chandelier
This modern chandelier would help bring the entire room together! What a statement piece!
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Every Diva Den needs a photo of a true diva! Why not hang this black and white portrait of Diana Ross? In fact, I might just do an entire wall of diva photos…can you imagine? Talk about inspiration!
Zebra Hide Rug
Underfoot you can never go wrong with a zebra rug. The average size of a zebra hide rug is 10 feet from tip of nose to tip of tail 6 feet at the widest point making it large enough to rest under a seating group.
And there you have it! My Diva Den inspired by midcentury bar stools and decorated using exclusively items from Chairish.com! What would you put in YOUR Diva Den? Leave me a comment!
Stylishly,
The Antiques Diva®
An Afternoon in Cotignac
Dear Diva Readers,
top: 5px; float: left; color: white; background: #781300; border: 1px solid darkkhaki; font-size: 60px; line-height: 50px; padding-top: 1px; padding-right: 5px; font-family: times;”>What antique lover hasn’t dreamed of hunting for treasures in Provence? The gorgeous landscape, the French lifestyle, the tiny villages dotting the hillsides, and lots of small shops and brocantes tucked away just waiting to be discovered…sounds like Antiques Diva Heaven! One of the idyllic villages we take clients to when they’re on an Antiques Diva Provence Tour is Cotignac. Nestled on a hillside, the village of Cotignac in the Var is surrounded by majestic cliffs which have played host to the town for centuries, and have provided shelter and refuge to humans for millennia. The Provencal village is the ideal place to take a stroll, admiring the charming architecture, quaint shops, and intoxicating blend of colors, both on the buildings and in nature.
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Driving up to the village is part of the pleasure of visiting this enchanting place. Most of the surrounding area is “zone vert” or green zone, meaning it’s protected for its natural beauty. As you weave your way through the road on the hill, you get a nice view of the village, which dates back to Roman times. Much of what must have attracted the Romans to this area still remains unchanged— the sunny climate, the excellent soil perfect for growing vines, and the picturesque views of the French countryside. But there is one more thing that attracts a Diva like me, and that is…antiques of course!
After parking the car, the first place to head to is the raised pedestrian road in the middle of the town called the Cours Gambetta. Line with large Plane trees which cast their shadows over the stone streets, this bustling little street is where you can often find locals perched on a bench, watching passersby or admiring the fountain which no doubt has seen thousands of people make a wish.
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For an antique lover, the first thing to do after grabbing a quick coffee is to hit some of the local shops. Our Diva Guide knows exactly which off the beaten path places to take you to, where you’ll find an eclectic mix of the best inventory. One of the shops we often take clients to is called MODES. Rounding a corner at the top of one of the hills, you’ll see antiques spilling out into the square from a tiny door which faces the hillside. Each piece at MODES is a work of art, and although it’s a small shop, it certainly has big style! Original works of art, vintage furniture, fine antiques, and Italian marble sculptures are all curated by the shops stylish owners, John and Simon.
Upon entering their treasure chest filled with antiques and vintage pieces, you’ll find there is a story behind each item they have. In fact, their home—which has been featured in several international shelter magazines– is just a short walk away, and is filled with even more antiques, all of which are quite special. And the view from this house on the hill is absolutely spectacular!
After weaving your way between the tables that spill onto the pavement from restaurants and cafes, you may find yourself in the mood for a nice meal al fresco. The popular Cafe du Cours is certainly Diva worthy, as there is a view of the main pedestrian road, along with a nice breeze coming from the valley– and the food is divine! After lunch, Stop into several other shops which dot the hill, offering everything from perfectly packable souvenirs to mid-century modern to antique artwork.
If you happen to be there on market day (Tuesday mornings until noon), you’ll find the village square is transformed into a colorful array of stalls filled with all kinds of French goodies! Whether you want to buy some homemade cheeses, local honey, ceramics, or baskets, the market is a lively place to spend an afternoon. Complete your glimpse into the French village life by sitting at a cafe with a coffee and people watching. You won’t be sorry!
If you would like information on our Antiques Diva Provence Tours, where we can incorporate a day in Cotignac for you, email us at info@antiquesdiva.com.
Au revoir,
The Antiques Diva®
Tudor Antiques
Dear Diva Readers,
top: 5px; float: left; color: white; background: #781300; border: 1px solid darkkhaki; font-size: 60px; line-height: 50px; padding-top: 1px; padding-right: 5px; font-family: times;”>A fun fact many of you may not know about me is that my university degree is in English literature with a history minor – I’ve always been fascinated with history and how life, art and culture interact. Perhaps my interest in antiques began because I view decorative objects from the past as giving me the opportunity to live with history – merging the past and present
My favorite time period in both literature (and history) is the Tudor period with Shakespeare, and Henry VII, Ann Boleyn, not to mention Elizabeth the First. It’s such rich period that it’s no surprise it was also an important time for interior design and furniture. It was during this span of time that England saw economic growth, geographical expanse, and much optimism which lead to wealthy home owners worrying less about money and war and turning their concerns to those of creature comforts at home. Plus as a sea faring nation England was gathering decor ideas from around the globe opening their collective eyes as a result of travel.
Prior to this period, Medieval and Gothic styles prevailed and the majority of great homes were designed to keep intruders out. However during the early Tudor times, with King Henry VIII on the throne, a boom in housing construction occurred, causing an increase in furniture production as well. As glass became a status symbol, wealthy home owners added many windows to their houses and also turned their eyes to the interiors, making subtle changes that reflected the times.
One of my favorite period Tudor houses – a cottage really – is Anne Hathaway’s Cottage near Stratford upon Avon. A brick building with half-timbering, a thatched roof and a delightful garden, this picture-perfect country house remains in almost the exact state as it was when Shakespeare won the hand of his wife, Anne.
Early Tudor furniture was not much different from its Gothic predecessors. Most of the population lived in modest homes and didn’t have much furniture at all. Even the upper class, who lived in large houses typically only had the basics— beds, tables, coffers, stools, and benches. It was common at the time for people to sit on stools and benches without backs, as chairs were reserved for the owner of the home, thus signifying his importance.
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While on a recent trip to England meeting Traditional Home Magazines for a Press Tour I found myself unexpectedly with some free time one afternoon – and I went to one of my favorite places in London – The Victoria and Albert Museum. If you haven’t been – consider it a DIVA MUST GO!!! The V&A’s collections cover a vast number of design styles, from the Romanesque art and architecture of the Middle Ages, to the 20th century’s radical Postmodernism exploring the trends, themes and revolutions in design over the centuries. Here I was able to walk through the ages exploring furniture throughout time seeing fabulous museum worthy examples from this period.
Most Tudor furniture pieces were made of oak and were bulky in design. There were no delicate silhouettes or airy carvings, but rather heavy imposing pieces that were often uncomfortable, save for an embroidered cushion to perch on. The great rooms of large homes were often softened by hanging tapestries on the cold stone walls and using carpets on the chilly floors. However as time went on, it became fashionable to install wood paneling on the walls. When benches and chests were placed against the walls, those sitting on them could lean back against the paneling, perhaps leading to the idea of a free standing bench with a back attached—or what we think of as a sofa or settee today.
The 16th century saw many cultural developments in fashion, the arts, theatre, architecture, and furniture design. Influence of the Italian Renaissance can be seen when furniture makers began incorporating more ornamentation and carvings into pieces. As the period progressed, upholstered furniture, wallpaper, and carpets became more and more popular. However most pieces from the Tudor period remained large, imposing, and reminiscent of Medieval style.
Today when shopping for antiques – while of course you can still buy period pieces if you know where to go and are willing to pay the price – most “Tudor antiques” you see on the market today are “reproductions” from the 19th C. Still antique – they are “style of” antiques – not period antiques. During the 19th century, Tudor style had a huge revival. One of the things interior designers comment upon about the Tudor revival pieces they buy is that they actually work well in new homes due to their massive size!
If you would like information on taking an Antiques Diva Buying Tour, email us at info@antiquesdiva.com.
Cheers,
The Antiques Diva®
Intaglios
Dear Diva Readers,
top: 5px; float: left; color: white; background: #781300; border: 1px solid darkkhaki; font-size: 60px; line-height: 50px; padding-top: 1px; padding-right: 5px; font-family: times;”>When clients come on an Antiques Diva Buying Tour, they often want to purchase items that will add to a collection and pieces that they can decorate their homes with. Whether we’re whisking them from shop to shop or perusing an outdoor flea market, we often come across intaglios in Italy as well as France and Belgium – they can be a wonderful collector’s item as well as decorative!
While they can be made in a variety of materials—including plastic— the most popular antique intaglios are fashioned from stone, coral, shell, fine metals, and glass. They were created when artists carved down into the material to hollow out a recessed image. Just as form meets function with many antiques, intaglios once served a practical purpose. When brushed with wax or ink, the intaglio was used as a seal, identifying the sender of a letter or document.
In ancient times, intaglios were made from gems. The word “glyptic” refers to the art of carving small gem stones which could be mounted in rings. When a letter was being sent, the sender would dip their glyptic-intaglio in wax, acting as a distinctive personal signature once the wax hardened. A finely carved intaglio meant that forgery would be more difficult. The recessed cut surfaces of these intaglio gems are often very well preserved and reveal that artificial methods such as heat, sugar, and dyes were used to achieve varying colors in the gemstones.
Intaglios have been used for thousands of years and in ancient cultures of Egypt, Mesopotamia, Greece, and Rome. In the 8th and 7th centuries BC, carved gems in Greece often depicted geometric animal poses. By the 6th century BC, gem carvings incorporated more human and divine figures, always very detailed. In the 5th century relief carvings—similar to cameos– became popular and people began wearing them as jewelry. However intaglios have had many renaissances throughout the world, and are often associated with Italy, France, and England. From the 14th century to the early 1900’s intaglios were widely used through Europe. Many of the collections found today have been mounted and framed and are used as decorative items.
Today intaglios can be used as decoration or even to make one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces. However you choose to use them, owning a piece of history is exhilarating! The story behind each unique intaglio shows just how fascinating antiques can be. If you would like information on taking an Antiques Diva Buying Tour, email us at info@antiquesdiva.com.
The Antiques Diva®
