When I get stuck and am looking for inspirational examples of 18^th and 19^th Century American interior architecture and decor I always end up turning the pages of Traditional American Rooms, by Brent Hull and Christine Franck.

The book is a celebration of Henry DuPont’s Winterthur. While many wealthy American were busy collecting European art and antiques, he chose to focus on collecting and furnishing his house with gorgeous antiques that were examples of the very best of early American style and craftsmanship. The story of Winterthur and its American Wing is beautifully summarized in the preface of the book.

Here are examples of some of my favorite rooms. I think the pictures speak for themselves, arranged them in order by date, illustrating the evolution of classical American traditional style through the eyes of Mr. DuPont.

 1733, Redbourne Parlor

 1740, Gidley Room

 1740,  Tappahonnock Room

 1760, Queene Anne Dining Room

 1762, Port Royal Room

 1790, Chestertown Room

 1802, Landcaster Room

 1806, Phyfe Room

 1812, Biltmore Drawing Room

My favorite is the 1844 Marlboro Room

I can squint my eyes and visualize this room with different curtains – linen to let the light in, and more relaxed furniture - sofas with  linen slip covers, reupholster the wing chairs I could move in tomorrow! Have to keep the rug, light fixtures - maybe not even electrify them- and paint! (I wish I could see more of the leather camel back settee.)

Love to know which room is your favorite…

Cheers,

Boston has been without a premiere antiques show for several years. After spending Friday afternoon at the show, I am delighted to report that the problem has been solved with the re-introduction of the Ellis Boston Antiques Show at the Cyclorama! The breadth and depth of exhibitors was fantastic – ranging from 17^th/18^th Century American and English antiques, to eclectic Mid-Century Modern, to 18^th/19^th Swedish antiques. It was the perfect way to wind down a busy week. Here’s a representative sample of Sally’s and my favorites.

 A leather chest from Alcocer Anituarios, with shops in Madrid and Boston, with original key and lock.

Andrew Spindler of Andrew Spindler Antiques (Essex, MA) has an eye for the beautiful and unusual.

 I am usually not a fan of strong patterns on the floor, but I loved the rug he used to anchor his display.

 This Deco Period Dutch chair was unbelievably comfortable. (It felt like it was made of spring steel.)

 At the other end of the spectrum was this set of 8 Oriental dining chairs. (Definitely need a glass top dining table!)

 How about this wrought iron “demilune” table and mirror above, or the mid 60’s stacking bureaus?

The other display I could not tear myself away from was Dawn Hill Antiques from New Preston, Ct., a shop specializing in 18^th/19^th Century Swedish antiques.

Sally and I loved this pair of bergeres and small plant stand.

Everything in her display was exquisite, right down to the accessories.

Check out the detail on the Gustavian dining chairs. (Set of 10)

I loved the bureau!

But the horse was my favorite!

At Fiske and Freeman’s booth (Ipswich, MA) I was once again reminded how art and beauty was incorporated into every day objects of this county’s early settlers.

Circa 1780 English or American Brass and Iron Laddle

Circa 1825 English Fish Strainer

Part 2 – Tomorrow…

Stay tuned…

Cheers,