Pair of Long Antique French Giltwood Valances or “Cantonnieres”, circa 1850

The reign of Napoleon III, often referred to as “The Second Empire”, featured an amalgamation of styles from previous regimes, ranging from the light and airy Rococo of Louis XV to the more stoic Neoclassical trophies of Louis XVI. Our painted giltwood overdoor from circa 1850 is in the vein of a Regence or Louis XV adaptation of the Napoleon III period. The piece is adorned with flowing motifs inspired by nature, such as the curled leaves, scalloped shell, and deep carvings seen on the overdoor. A main principle of Napoleon III furnishings was to utilize every inch available, as noted by the gadrooned leaf and rinceaux that emanate from behind the center medallion, forming a sprawling border. The medallion features an amazing high relief carving of a floral bouquet surrounded by curled leaves with scrolled tendrils and raised, asymmetrical panels. At the top is a scalloped shell, which is mimicked by a pair of parted leaves set at an angle in each of the upper corners. All of the carvings are presented in giltwood, which pairs nicely with the cream colored background that is enveloped in a quarter round molding (also gilded). The entire grouping is presented as a raised carving, with a thin board behind it that has tas de sable (sandpit) pilasters topped with block finials flanking the overdoor. Unique to most other antique overdoors...

From Italy, circa 1850, this giltwood Florentine mirror features a tremendous display of hand-carved curled leaves on multiple levels. The t...

A subtle twist on a timeless classic, this Louis Philippe mirror has four rounded corners, whereas the traditional Louis Philippe only has rounded upper corners. Also of note, the mi...

Hand-carved in France, circa 1850, this elegant etagere features elements inspired by nature, known as the Rocaille style. The opulent giltwood wall shelf...

Hand-carved in Italy circa 1850, this very large giltwood architectural was finished using a process known as meccatura, which involves co...

During the Renaissance, an Italian style of painting known as capriccio was introduced. Capriccio paintings, such as our pair from circa 1850, depict architectural “fantasies”, pairi...

Ca. 1850 Antique French Pillow

Ca. 1850 Antique French Pillow

Ca. 1850 Antique French Aubusson Pillow

Ca. 1850 Antique French Tapestry Pillow

Set of two horizontal curtains or valances hand-embroidered with "intaglio" stitch. they were in a French outfit. they are interesting also: without the actual curtains, simply on t...

Antique French Aubusson Tapestry Pillow With Figures In A Landscape In A Sepia Tones Ca.1850