John Julia

Be transported to the time of French royalty with empire furniture. These furnishings, which graced the home of Napoleon I, is sure to give any homeowner a taste of luxury and class.

What are Eastlake furniture and what do they look like? Those who want Victorian furnishings without the over-the-top look should make themselves familiar with these kind of pieces.

The origin of centennial furniture can be traced back to the 1876 Centennial Exposition. Held in Philadelphia, the event featured many things around the world, including the latest in technology, fashion and furniture. During this time, America became nostalgic and sought the better times the country had a hundred years prior. This resulted in the sudden demand for the Colonial period antiques, as buyers thought their lives could enjoy a boost when surrounded with such things.

What is burl wood? A burl is actually a large outgrowth on the trunk and branch of a tree, and the wood cut from such outgrowth is called the burl wood. A burl is often the result of fungal or insect infestation; its growth occurs when the tree becomes damaged or undergoes changes due to environmental stress. Burl wood is mostly sought by craftsmen, as it can be used for sculptures, clocks and burl walnut furniture.

People love antiques for a reason. These wooden works of art, including antique oak chairs, have an appeal that is just difficult to resist. Individuals who are fond of these items know for a fact that these objects are an ideal investment. The furnishings are both beautiful and useful. In addition, the value of these things increases with time. Antiques are probably the only kind of investment that have both form and function, and with increased value for the long-term.

Antique roll top desks were manufactured as pieces made for writing. In the time before laptops and cellphones, people mostly communicated by writing. This is the reason this kind of desk was ubiquitous in houses and offices. It is said that this desk was created in the 19th century by Abner Cutler, who owns Cutler Desk Company. He made a unique piece by adding a flexible tambour to an ordinary desk, just so he could cover the desk and all items in it when he was not using it.

The item, most distinguished for its open and flat surface, can hold a variety of things. It can hold something as light as pieces of paper, or something heavier such as hardbound books and dinnerware sets. It comes in many forms, shapes, heights, sizes, and intended uses. Tables are also made with different kinds of materials, such as glass, metal, plastic and wood. A great example of a table made from wood is the antique oak table.

One of the things that make antique office furniture special is craftsmanship. In a time when everything is mass produced, these furnishings serve as a silver lining. Each and every piece is a work of art, the masterpiece of the wood worker who created it. Moreover, every item is an example of exceptional quality. It is rare to find something that was created in such way these days.

Antique furniture is great, but antique marble top furniture is even better. The marble top is a welcome addition to any piece because it gives the furnishings an extra touch of class. Most antiques are made from wood—oak, mahogany, rosewood, etc—and the end product of such materials is always a work of art. However, with a marble top, the aesthetic factor rises a notch. The contrast of dark or light wood with the different shades of marble always results in a stunning piece.

Antique oak chairs are a perfect complement to any room. These pieces will definitely add a touch of class and elegance in a space, regardless if it is an office, study or library.