Antiques for Today's Lifestyes

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Antiques For Today's Lifestyle By Howard Wiggins Many customers today enjoy a wide range of choices when it comes to furnishing and accessorizing their home.  Yet oftentimes, pieces from different eras or generations are overlooked.  Why not choose items from the past?  Using treasures from the past connects you with your family or heritage or, shows special interest in those items which can be shared with others.Our latest example celebrates antique objects d'art ofthe Asian culture by an artful display of balance to make an impactful statement.  Howard Wiggins Interior Design created a tableau by use of a waterfall table covered in 24 carat gold leaf to display the various artifacts.  A carved ivory flower basket from Peking, encased for protection, in acrylic, was used to create the focal point for the display.  A Marbro  chinoiserie lamp, topped by a royal blue string shade, and carved lapis lazuli box of the Art Deco period were placed on one side of the centerpiece to add playful color to the neutral background of natural grass woven wallpaper.  Balancing the other side of the centerpiece, Howard Wiggins Interior Design stair stepped a pair of eighteenth century chinoiserie Foo dogs, facing each other, on carved ebony stands to create height.  A carved ivory magnifying glass resting on top of a silk box was added to fill the rest of the space beneath.  Next, Howard Wiggins Interior Design had to deal with the vertical space behind the objects to frame their intrinsic beauty and emphasize their order of placement.  A shimmering gold silk obi was wrapped and tied over a black lacquer pole draped with tassels; beneath that, was hung a antique box lid of carved ivory matted with vintage silk. Howard Wiggins Interior Designnext added a pair of carved gilt wood dragons toembellish the obi. Crowning the effect, a spectacular carved ivory chrysanthemum on top of a black lacquered panel was added to gracefully draw the eye upward, as well as, downward to the ivory flower basket below.  Theivory panel, from the turn of the century World's Fair in Chicago, was acquired through Red Coat Antiques at the Murfreesboro Antique Show. Each month, I will highlight new photos, in the hope of challenging you to think outside the box, as well as, to encourage you to purchase an antique or add to yourpresent collection, for the express purpose of giving it new life in your home!