Yearly archives for 2012

Antiquing ~ Grand Luxe Style

Antique Letter EngravingWell, who would have thought, I have been asked to become a columnist!  Come to think of it, blogging and writing articles for the web is something I have done for a while.  I also truly love sharing my joy and inspirations from history, antiques and design.  In addition ~ if time allows ~ researching and writing could easily turn into a daily escape even more so now that I have been armed with my MacBook Pro laptop and its amazing spell check (English is still my second language after all).

I was thrilled that a most delightful publication, Grand Luxe Magazine of Dallas, asked me to become their antique editor, debuting with my column, Antiques in Style.  I am truly looking forward to diving into this new adventure, and offer my sincere thanks to everyone at GLM for encouraging me.  Special thanks are due to the publication’s new editor, Carolyn Tillery, for her support.  The magazine is online, so you can click here to go directly to the article or just enjoy it below:

Grande Luxe Magazine: Antiques in StyleGrande Luxe Magazine: Antiques in StyleInessa Stewart's Antiques

Antique Pewter ~ Precious Metal of Charm

antique letter engravingThe history of wide use of antique European pewter dates back to the 11th century, also termed the Middle Ages, when pewter came into vogue to grace the tables of royalty and nobility for daily use as decorative tableware.  Pewter is a very soft pliable alloy in which the predominant (at least 92%) ingredient is tin and it has been a part of world history even before the Middle Ages.  Archeological digs in Egypt uncovered pewter that was crafted 3,500 year ago!  This is the period historians typically call the Bronze Age.  The primary metal in the alloy of bronze is tin, alloyed with copper.  Historians also speculate that pewter, and its resulting need for the metal tin, was one of the reasons for the Roman conquest of Britain.

Antique furniture and antique accessories

Antique Accessoires

The introduction of china and porcelain in 18th century signaled the end of the daily use of pewter as tableware.  Nevertheless, new uses for pewter were devised by craftsmen as a creative metal during the Arts and Crafts, Art Nouveau and Art Deco periods.

Antique pewter accessorie planterAntique pewter accessorie candle holder

 

The antique pewter we find today is primarily from 18th, 19th and early 20th century.

There is an undeniable strength of character and soft, warm patina in old and cherished pewter items.  I just love groupings of tankards and pitchers in the middle of farm tables or atop antique buffets, filled with wild flowers.

Antique pewter accessories Antique pewter planter

Antique pewter accessories

Just in the last few decades the popularity of this precious metal has reemerged.  The Country French, rustic and lovely greige color palettes of today’s interiors have given a new resurgence in the interest of the charming wares crafted so many years ago in this pliable and very adaptable metal ~ antique pewter.

Antique Flourish

Antique inspirations ~ The French Dream Home

Antique Letter EngravingStoried Strait Lane in Dallas is well known for exceptional homes and its famous residents (Owen, Luke and Andrew Wilson resided on this street).  One particularly exquisite home, fashioned in the French style, is graced with a crushed limestone front court yard, with striking and distinctive Parisian architecture providing the setting for the remarkable residence of Kelly and Norm Green.  This distinctive home stands apart ~ even amongst the abundance of its famous and grand neighbors.

GrandLuxe Magazine

In the June issue of Dallas’ Grand Luxe magazine, talented editor and writer Carolyn Tillery features a gorgeous layout of this incredible home that echoes the mansions one would expect to be found only in Europe.  It is truly a Francophile’s dream!

GrandeLuxe Magazine

Click to Enlarge – Grandluxemagazine.com

GrandLuxe Magazine

In this home exceptional design was married with the best from the past and the luxuries of today.  The home is abundantly charming, elegant and is the epitome of Parisian style ~ a French Haven ~ down to the authentic architectural antiques used throughout its fabulous antique interiors.  (Below are the photos from this beautiful article.  Enjoy!)

GrandeLuxe Magazine

Click to Enlarge – Grandluxemagazine.com

GrandLuxe Magazine

GrandLuxe Magazine

I had the pleasure of meeting Kelly Green at a charity fundraiser some years ago.  The Greens are well known for their philanthropy and the hospitality they extend to many charities in Texas.  It was a home tour featuring the residences on Straight Lane with cooking demonstrations by some of the best restaurants in Dallas, all for the benefit of the Dallas Symphony.  We were busily prepared an elaborate cooking demonstration in the Green’s incredible French-inspired kitchen and also had the pleasure of creating an antique-themed table setting for the dining room.  The event was a smashing success and the Green’s home was the favorite of all who attended.  I will never forget how charming and hospitable Kelly Green was to me and my staff.  I will forever remember with fondness this inspiring and amazing home, and its charming and gracious owners.

Inessa Stewart's Antiques

 Inessa Stewart

Antiques in Style is a source of joy for me to create, and hopefully will be a source of inspiration for you! The variety, artistry and history of the antiques and vintage pieces that surround us every day provide pleasure, beauty and sometimes even intrigue.

The classics never go out of style, and each era, country, and even artisan's interpretations create an environment that is always full of surprises.

It is truly a pleasure to bring such timeless style together for every client and follower of my blog. And of course, your input is always welcome!

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