Loving Italian flair for design!

I love traveling to almost anywhere in the world, but have to admit that for me Italy has it all - scenery, food, wine, culture, and style! When you walk down a street in Rome or Milan you wonder how so many people can look so chic. The same goes for Italian design. I am so often drawn to things Italian, whether it's new or antique.

Doyle New York

If we start with the old and work our way forward, this is a lovely example of a circa 1800 Northern Italian walnut and birch game table. The 3-D parquetry inlay work is gorgeous. This sold at a Doyle New York auction for $1,625. 

Doyle New York

This delicate Italian Rococo gilt mirror is exuberant but not over the top, as so much rococo can be. This was also sold at a Doyle New York auction. It's 43" x 38" and sold for $2,125. 

Christie's New York

I have always thought it would be cool to have a grotto chair. Like hall chairs, they are meant to be looked at, and are clearly not designed for comfort. This 19th century Italian giltwood and ebonized example that sold at Christie's is fabulous. It's a wonderful decorative object. It sold for $5,000. 

Bonhams

This day bed is terribly elegant. The sweeping curves and the beautiful marquetry are wonderful. This is 1st quarter of the 19th century Italian neoclassical, and sold at a Bonham's auction in Los Angeles for $3,050. 

Bonhams, San Francisco

Jumping to the 20th century, this Italian Art Deco chandelier is so stylish. It has great detail. This sold at a Bonhams auction in San Francisco for $1,952.

Wright Auction, Chicago

A while ago I wrote a blog Are you off your rocker - a cool rocking chair?, and since then I've noticed really cool rockers. This one was designed by Gae Aulenti in 1962, and is made of lacquered wood and vinyl. It has such sensuous curves, and just want to be admired. This sold at a Wight auction in Chicago for $1,000. 

Doyle New York

Finally, we must include some Murano glass. Italians make such wonderful designs in glass and crystal, whether it be chandeliers or decorative objects, like this vase. This one was designed by Ludovico Diaz de Santillana in 1987, and sold for $688 at a Doyle New York auction.

Add some Italian style to your home and you'll feel almost as chic as those Italian men and women strolling down the streets of Rome!