So I am a huge fan of antiques and vintage furniture. I love the stuff. I adore going to antique and resale shops, scouting out finds. I could spend many days doing it without issue. I think it all stemmed from my design courses in college. I was going to be an Architect and Interior Designer. Well, those were my aspirations at one point. Anyway, although I didn’t fulfill those dreams, I do still carry my love for furniture, antiques and design with me today. I am now at an age, where my tastes are changing and I see more focus on the things I really love. Victorian furniture definitely falls into the ‘Love’ class.
I love the ornate details in the carvings. I love the wheels on the legs of the furniture. Plus, on top of all that — stuff was just built very well back in those days. The quality was much greater than the things we mass produce these days. Recently, I was in Pottery Barn (which I do love)… I saw a number of mirrors that were over the $200 mark. These pieces are made in some foreign country, by people working hard for very little. The quality and materials may be slightly better than some of the other big box stores. But we are paying for the premium of the moniker that gets slapped on the box when we buy it.
I doubt that many of the pieces we see today, being churned out by these companies will be around in 100+ years from now. The glues and finishing nails holding the parts together will fail and most likely only a few specimens will make it. However, when you look back 100+ years right now… You will see materials and craftsmanship that HAS stood the test of time.
The mirror I purchased today is at minimum 100 years old (note the Victorian Age was between 1837-1901). Ironically I paid $100 for it. I hope that the piece lasts for many more generations to come. Hopefully, my son learns to appreciate the craftsmanship, the history, the romance of antiques that were well built and smartly designed – like I do. So that I can pass it down to him. If so, I am certain to pass down many items. In fact the desk I am sitting at right now is around 135-140 years old as well… It is a Victorian Library desk. One leg may be warped a bit… but what a treasure it is. I do love it just so.
Anyway, I just wanted to share a photo of the mirror and write a litte. God knows I have not been paying much attention to this blog for awhile, and I seriously want to change that. Thank you for taking some time to read this. I do appreciate it.
Matt is a Systems Development Director for a multinational franchise. Matt has lived and worked in Hawaii, Chicago, South Florida and currently resides outside of Atlanta. He enjoys his hobbies including Technology, Gadgets/EDC, Fountain Pens, Wetshaving, Clocks, Antiques & Coffee. He even roasts his own coffee weekly.
