19th Century Chinese Lanterns

This hand-carved, bobbin-turned bench is an unusual example of its kind. It has a naive quality exemplified by its asymmetrical frame, one side curving out in the manner of a recamie...

Compagnonnage is the French tradition in which a future builder, after several years of apprenticeship with a master, completes a tour de France (or sometimes, as is often the case with woodworkers, of Germany) to pursue further expertise and knowledge of the craft. At the end of each stop on this tour the apprentice completes a work reflecting his skill level. Typically, these were collected by antiquarians, architects and historians of architecture and design. Works of compagnonnage were brought into the spotlight by Bill Blass, who collected beautiful model staircases and whose home was much admired. The Cooper-Hewitt Museum hosted an exhibition of masterful examples, and further illuminated the process of apprenticeship: “Compagnonnage, meaning “group of companions,” is a type of design practice that combined formal study with practical training from masters. Apprentices honed their skills in a workshop during the day, taking courses in the art of geometrical drawing and design in the evening, living together in a boarding house. First, concepts were taught, then the handiwork, both of which became increasingly sophisticated…At each stage of the learning process (acceptance, reception, mastership), apprentices created models, leading them to become masters of their craft and design.” We have never seen a model of revolving doors...

A four-light crystal and bronze candelabrum designed by Jacques Adnet for Baccarat. The metal surface has a warm patina.

This very beautiful chair was most likely produced in China for the English or Danish market, and exported via the East India Company. Unusual for work of this era, it still wears it...