Elegant, Refined, and Subtle: The Ring Ouzel

A taxidermy case of a Ring Ouzel by J. Cullingford of DurhamMackinnon Fine Furniture Collection This very fine taxidermy case of a Ring Ouzel (Turdus Torquatus) is by J. Cullingford of Durham. The Cullingford firm was active in the late 19th century.   It was run by Joseph Cullingford, who became Curator of the University Museum, …

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Seating in Silhouettte: Chairs in Profile

A George II walnut side chair attributed to Giles Grendey shown in profile Mackinnon Fine Furniture Collection Back by popular demand... we are looking at chairs from a different angle today. A George II walnut Gainsborough chair attributed to Giles Grendey Mackinnon Fine Furniture Collection You would always expect to see a chair front on, or perhaps at a …

Chic Chinoiserie: Lacquer Panels Transformed into Tables

A Chinese 18th century black lacquer low table Mackinnon Fine Furniture Collection Today we are sharing some of our recent acquisitions that all feature magnificent chinoiserie designs. Each of the tables includes an antique lacquer panel decorated in gilt highlights on a black ground that has been mounted as a table. Shown above is an …

Thirlestaine House: A History Full of Art

Thirlestaine House in Cheltenham once housed one of the greatest picture collections in the nineteenth century.  It was originally built by an amateur architect named J.R. Scott in 1820.  British Listed Buildings describes the house as follows: 'Thirlestaine House represents the apogee of the Cheltenham villa and is the only surviving example of the grand villa …

Blair Castle: A Scottish Masterpiece

If you have read our blog before, you are probably familiar with our banner image in the heading of the blog. The picture shows the magnificent Drawing Room at Blair Castle, the ancient seat of the Dukes and Earls of Atholl. The ceiling is decorated with magnificent plasterwork, and the room features exceptional torcheres by …

Mackinnon’s Summer Lamps Catalogue Now Published

We launched our summer lamps catalogue this week, and are delighted to share it with you. Have a look at the catalogue on our website here. These lamps are the perfect complement to any interior: with a mix of both antique and modern examples, the following collection reflects timeless designs and styles.  Each of the …

William Gomm: A Master of 18th Century Furniture

Detail of the top of a George III serpentine secretaire dressing chest attributed to William GommMackinnon Fine Furniture Collection There are several 'superstars' of Georgian furniture, including artisans like Thomas Chippendale, Thomas Sheraton, and Giles Grendey.  But there are other lesser known makers that have only recently been brought to light.  William Gomm is one such …

Mackinnon’s Biggest Fan: Burt the Saluki

We are finishing off the week with an introduction to the gallery's biggest fan (we are also quite fond of him!). Burt the Saluki can often be found at the gallery having a look at the collection and admiring antiques. Here is a shot of him yesterday giving his seal of approval on our wonderful …

Prized Porcelain: James Giles and Worcester Porcelain

A Worcester Teacup and Saucer by the atelier of James Giles from the Saltram Service Mackinnon Fine Furniture Collection James Giles (1718-1780) was an outstanding English porcelain and glass painter who worked for all of the major porcelain manufacturers, including Worcester, Derby, Bow, and Chelsea.  Giles’ father, also James Giles, was a ‘China Painter’ by …

The Age of Walnut: A History (cont.)

A George II walnut armchair attributed to Giles Grendey Mackinnon Fine Furniture Collection As our Age of Walnut exhibition continues this week, we are exploring more of the history of the use of walnut as a timber for furniture in England. From the end of the 17th century through the middle of the 18th century, …