The Perfect Pairing: A Pair of Gilt Torcheres & Giltwood Table

In our next instalment of 'The Perfect Pairing,' we are looking at a classic ensemble of furniture from the early 18th century known as a pier set.  This set would include a pair of torcheres which would flank either side of a pier table with a mirror hung above the table.  In the early Georgian …

Exhibition Spotlight: A George II Giltwood Table from the Collections of the Earls of Lovelace

  We are highlight an exceptional George II carved giltwood table in the manner of William Kent as today's Great Provenances exhibition spotlight.  The table, with its Portoro Nero marble top, features a boldly gadrooned edge above a central mask flanked by scrolling acanthus leaves with swags of carved flowers.  The table stands on carved cabriole legs surmounted …

Across the Colour Spectrum: Decorating in White

Our next stop on the decorating colour spectrum is white.  Before we get started, it is worth defining what 'white' actually is as there is a debate as to whether white is a colour or not.  According to the additive colour theory white is, technically, a colour as it is the blending of all colours …

When the Palladian Meets the Rococo: A George II White Painted Mirror

Today we are highlight a rare and fantastical mirror reflects the emergence of the rococo style in England, which developed in the wake of the Palladian revival earlier in the century.  This outstanding and highly important George II carved and painted mirror is in the manner of John Vardy, the architect, and his brother Thomas Vardy, …

When William Kent and William Hogarth Collide: An Exceptional George II Mahogany Longcase Clock

Today is the story of two Williams--William Kent, the renowned designer and architect attributed with the Palladian Revival, and William Hogarth, an English painter whose name is synonymous with English satire in Georgian art. We recently acquired a George II mahogany longcase clock in the manner of William Kent.  The case is constructed in a …