Antiques Magazine Archive, May 2023

It’s widely accepted that the first link between gardens and ornamental sculpture was established by classical civilisations in the Mediterranean – one which still exists to this day.

We look at a brief history of antique garden sculpture, ornaments and furniture - and how exactly we ended up with such a varied range of pieces and styles.

"Summer afternoon—summer afternoon; to me those have always been the two most beautiful words in the English language." - Henry James

As the weather slowly improves, those of us lucky enough to have a garden or outside space are likely to be thinking of preparing it in one way or another, so that we too are able to enjoy all the sunny summer afternoons ahead.

It’s perfectly reasonable these days to head to your local superstore or online retailer and purchase all manner of cheap, poorly made garden furniture. Come next spring, it’ll be discarded out onto the street with a leg or two missing, or a split in the seating fabric – until the refuse lorry collects it. What a waste.

What’s much more interesting, long-lasting - and environmentally-friendly - is to dig a little deeper and build a collection of attractive antique pieces which will actually add some proper class.

What could be better than a 120 year old garden urn, or a stylish 1930s bamboo garden sofa? These pieces are sturdy, well crafted, and exude history and charm. They have stood the test of time (and weather) and will remain in good shape for years to come.

Here are some must-have types of antique and vintage garden furniture to really zhuzh up your garden this summer.

It’s no secret that if you’re looking for period furniture or antiques – pre-Elizabeth II – then they are often categorised by which English King or Queen held the throne at the time of the item's manufacture.

In this article, we'll be looking at four of the major antique periods: Edwardian, Victorian, Georgian (including Regency) and Carolean - how they developed, what makes them unique, and where you can buy royal antiques online.

Flowers have always been featured in antiques, from art to ceramics, furniture to lighting, garden ornaments to – of course – jewellery.

As we approach the celebrated Chelsea Flower Show in the UK, it’s a fitting time to take a look at the meaning behind flowers and why they are featured so heavily in antiques.