Ancient History: The Origin of Dogs of Foo

Dogs of Foo are guardian animals that originated in China and can be traced back to the Han Dynasty (206 BCE-211 CE).  These lion-like creatures were often placed at the entrances of palaces, temples, and homes to guard and protect.  Foo dogs are almost always shown in pairs, with one male and one female, to …

Designer Spotlight: Sims Hilditch

Our next Designer Spotlight, Sims Hilditch, is led by founder and Creative Director Emma Sims Hilditch who has been making her mark on English interiors for over a decade.  Emma's artistic roots run in the family, as she is the great granddaughter of a Royal Academician painter and the daughter of an interior decorator.  Emma's …

Elegant & Chic: A Pair of Two Tier Tables with Coloured Stones

We have recently acquired this fantastic pair of two tier tables, each featuring a collection of coloured stones. The tops of each table are inset with the coloured stones on a gilded surface and mounted in craquelure painted frames.  The lower shelves are decorated with gilding and craquelure surrounds.  The brass frames feature pinecone finials …

Designer Spotlight: Sophie Ashby of Studio Ashby

Our next Designer Spotlight, Sophie Ashby of Studio Ashby, has a fascinating background.  Sophie grew up between South Africa and the UK, and at the young age of 25 she set up her interior design practice.  Sophie's projects reflect her personality with an eye for incorporating art throughout her interiors, whether it be traditional or …

The Perfect Pairing: A Louis XV Bombé Commode & Louis XV Giltwood Fauteuils

In our second instalment of 'The Perfect Pairing,' we are looking at two exceptional examples of 18th century French design that work beautifully in tandem.  Both of these pieces reflect the taste and style of the court of Louis XV with the incorporation of rococo motifs including curved forms and elaborate detailing. This very fine …