Vintage home décor is akin to travelling back in history through the medium of rare antiques that have stood the test of time. Naturally, it takes time to build a collection and curate it with the finest collectibles. AstaGuru’s ‘Opulent Collectibles’ Auction brings together a beautiful assortment of such coveted treasures that can accentuate the elegance of décor. The lineup includes stunning ceramics, furniture, crystal chandeliers, silverware, Persian carpets, vintage clocks, and many other exquisite decorative pieces steeped in timeless elegance. Here are some of the quintessential vintage décor to be showcased in the upcoming auction.

Vintage Ceramic

Ceramics, especially the ones from Asia, have always been a preferred object of decorative arts. Sought after by collectors across the globe, antique ceramics celebrate the craftsmanship of different cultures and add a touch of traditional sophistication to an interior.

Lot 128 | A Set Of Two Chinese Garden Stools | Circa:

Originating in the rich artistic culture of Japan, Satsuma and Imari ware adorn prestigious ceramic collections in the world due to their fine texture and extraordinarily depiction of Oriental motifs, including landscapes as well as flora and fauna. The start of the practice traces back to the 16th century Satsuma province of Japan. By the eighteenth century, the Satsuma vases were revolutionised with a new range of designs, colours, and techniques. Created with white clay and covered with a cream-coloured glaze, Satsuma vases were skilfully decorated in thick applied gold and multi-coloured, bright overglaze enamels. The decorative themes on these pieces were inspired by ancient Japanese culture and typically included literary and mythological scenes depicting flowers, birds, oriental landscapes, Shishi, dragons, and phoenix. Extremely rare and very precious, Satsuma ware is highly coveted by collectors due to its powerful aesthetic, high artistic standards, and historical significance.

Lot 108 | A Large Satsuma Plate | Circa: 1880

Imari porcelain with intricate design featuring images of cranes, fish, beautiful women, flowers and gnarled tree branches are highly sought-after by antique collectors. Chinese porcelain is also continuously in demand owing to its refined texture and beautiful meticulous decoration. Chinaware throughout history was regarded as an object of great rarity and luxury possessed by the affluent aristocratic families. With a varied collection of styles developed through different glazes and decoration, the exquisite beauty of Chinese porcelain continues to rule the hearts of antique collectors looking to add rare pieces to their décor.

Lot 83 | An Exceptional Japanese Imari Jar With Lid | Circa: 1880

Antique Furniture

Antique furniture never goes out of style and is without a doubt a treasure trove of elegance. The legacy of antique and vintage furniture in India springs from a cultural synthesis à la east meets west. The medieval era in India witnessed the arrival of British, Dutch, French, and Portuguese settlements. With their stay, European tastes and preferences seeped into all spheres of life in India. This collaboration between the east and the west has left an indelible mark on aesthetics and styles, including furniture. Executed with timber from the subcontinent and rendered in an amalgamation of European styles and traditional Indian motifs like tigers, fish, vinery, and lion heads, colonial furniture became a hallmark of India’s pre-independence era.

Lot 107 | An Exceptional Four Poster King Size Colonial Teak Wood Bed | Circa: 1910

The English have had a remarkable influence on indigenous Indian arts and crafts. Various styles of art were developed during this time. However, the influence on Indian furniture aesthetics was the most significant. A style of furniture making that was a blend of Indian craftsmanship and exotic English designs came to the forefront and became highly sought-after at the time. Characterised by an exquisite depth of carvings and a plush surface, these furniture pieces were generally made using exotic hardwood, rosewood, shisham, or teak wood. With intricate carvings emanating a timeless appeal, Anglo-Indian furniture has stood the test of time and celebrates the virtuosity of its creators.

Lot 195 | An Impressive Anglo-Indian Three-piece Rosewood Wardrobe | Circa: 1910

Crystal Luminaire An important accessory for an inimitable interior, crystal and glass objects are an essential aspect of vintage décor. Ranging from chandeliers, floor lamps, and crystal decorative items with artistic designs, crystal decoratives put a dazzling spotlight on the thoughtful setting of a place. The firm of F & C Osler of London and Birmingham were the leading makers of chandeliers and lighting during the nineteenth century. Established in Birmingham, UK in 1807 by Thomas Osler and his two sons, the F & C Osler firm was synonymous with creating the purest and most delicate quality crystal chandeliers, massive glass structures, including tables and thrones, fountains and furniture. With a rigorous apprentice regime, F&C Osler employed master artisans who deftly created each crystal masterpiece. Their clientele included royalty and elite families from all over the world.

Lot 142 | A Fine Crystal Candelabra By F & C Osler, Birmingham | Circa: 1890

Persian Carpet

An important hallmark of the Iranian culture; Persian carpets & rugs created in the region have fascinated royals and connoisseurs since time immemorial. Renowned for their intricate designs, rich colours, and inimitable craftsmanship, the story of these carpets can be traced back to 539 B.C when Cyrus the Great conquered Babylon and introduced the art of carpet making in Persia. Representing the intricate artistry from the different regions of Iran, these eponymous Persian carpets are highly coveted among the collectors of vintage and antique items. Originated in the city of Kerman located in Southeast Iran, Kerman rugs are prized for their ornate floral designs and a range of medallion patterns. An extraordinary category of Persian carpets, Isfahan rugs are decorated with designs inspired by the city of Isfahan in Iran. Designated a world heritage for its architecture, the city of Isfahan is dotted with majestic palaces, tiled mosques, minarets and other historic buildings.

Lot 155 | An Exceptional Kerman Wool Carpet | Circa: 1930

Vintage Clock

Vintage clocks personify technology and innovation. They perfectly complement the rustic beauty of antique furniture. Steeped in a rugged old-world charm, vintage clocks are also a fascination among timepieces aficionados.

Lot 17 | An Impressive French Marble Mantel Clock | Circa: 1880

Scheduled for July 30-31, 2022, our upcoming ‘Opulent Collectibles’ auction celebrates a melange of global craftsmanship. Visit the AstaGuru website to view the entire catalogue and bid in the auction.