Antiques Throughout History ~ Prologue

Initial Aantiques and the study of history represent a remarkable journey of discovery and reflection on our past.  Humans have always had a fascination with preceding civilizations and with the background of the objects and stories of yesteryear.  This knowledge gives us a foundation that enriches our lives ~ and then makes us thirst for more.

This fascination emerged during the 18th and 19th century after major archeological discoveries led to research into ancient civilizations, fueling an explosion of creativity, art, and style.  This strong interest in history, antiques and art continues today ~ inspiring us to write this blog.

As if we have a private time machine, we will explore the centuries, travelling to ancient castles and villages in the search of the birth, origins and history of antiques and the antique furniture we love today. We invite you along on this fascinating & amazing journey.

Don’t worry ~ we are not going back to college ~ in fact these insights are not available in today’s schools.  These tales are divulged and discovered by living with history and having the insatiable curiosity about the origins of everyday objects that furnish our homes and build our collections.

This is the mission of our blog, Mirroring History ~ to find the explanations and secrets of the past, bring more meaning to the present, and to inspire us for a greater future. SignatureInessa

New Antique Shipment ~ 2 More on the Water!

V-2variety’s the very spice of life, French Antiques   Italian Antiquesthat gives it all its flavor said William Cowper, famous 18th century English writer and poet.
As you know, we believe in this statement, which is clearly evident when viewing our latest amazing shipment.
Antique Accessories GaloreThe incredible selection of this shipment includes antique French lighting & European crystal chandeliers, antique paintings, culinary accessories, an abundance of antique Italian & French occasional tables, antique doors and other architectural elements and of course the beautiful antique case furniture for which we are so famous.
Antique Paintings & AccessoriesWarehouse Full of French Antiques
We have been unpacking & setting up for days & finally had the time to write about it & share the excitement about our antique shipment.  This is our 6th container from Europe in 2011 & two more are on the way, the first arriving in Dallas mid-June and the second arriving in Baton Rouge mid-July!  Looks like it’s going to be a busy Antique Treasures from France & Italysummer!Parisian French AntiquesThe photos give you a glimpse of what arrived, but for more inspiration look at our website’s New Antique Arrivals section!
Zoie in the Cart

Architectural Antiques Galore

Stay tuned to our website as we are furiously adding new items each day, in between unpacking containers, of course… or better yet~ drop by one of our showrooms and share in our excitement!
SignatureJointGrand French Antique Painting

Culinary Antiques

I-1I remember PewterAndSunflowersdropping by my grandmother’s house after school.  We would sit in her kitchen by the open window, lace curtains blowing in the wind, talking and drinking tea.  I would peel apples; she would roll out the dough.  A few hours later wonderful warm strudel was coming out of the oven and my grandfather would magically appear, ready for sampling.  Those old memories are here with me when I am in my own kitchen.  What begun years ago propelled my love for cooking and all things culinary.  What I would give today for my grandmother’s old crock-pot sitting in her Copperkitchen window?
This fascination of all things culinary started me on my epicurean collecting.  I adore the glow of old copper; the patina of antique silver and the allure of old pewter.  Every European trip we scour the countryside of the continent for gastronomic finds.  These everyday items make my kitchen a special gathering place and the center of our family’s meals, festivities and memorable celebrations.ButcherBlock
We just received a new container in our Baton Rouge store and one is on the way to our Dallas location.  Both shipments have wonderful arrays of culinary treasures.
“The discovery of a new dish does more for human happiness than the discovery of a new star,” wrote French writer and gastronome Anthelme Brillat-Savarin.
So, I will share with you one of my favorite recipes…
Blueberry Muffins     I just love baking these muffins during the blueberry season in the early summer, when the berries are juicy and plump. The recipe was perfected during the years of Renaissance Garden Café and many of you been asking for it. So, here it is – my secret recipe. Enjoy!
INGREDIENTS     2 cups unbleached flour, plus 1 tablespoon for dusting berries
1 teaspoon baking sodaIMG_1391
1½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1½ cup sour cream
¼ cup of milk
¼ cup vegetable oil
1½ teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups fresh blueberries
Extra sugar for topping
PREPARATION v Preheat oven to 4250.
v Spray muffin pan with nonstick cooking spray.
v Pick over blueberries for stems, rinse, towel dry & dust with 1 tablespoon of flour.
v Stir flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda & salt until well-mixed in a large bowl.
v In a separate bowl whisk eggs, milk, sour cream, oil  & vanilla with a fork until blended.
v Fold sour cream mix with berries into flour mixture, just until moist ~ do not over mix.
v Using ice cream scoop, fill muffin pan evenly with batter & sprinkle with sugar before baking.
v Place muffin pan in the middle of the oven and lower the temperature to 4000.
v Bake for 20 minutes & test with the toothpick in the center.
v Cool on a wire rack before removing from muffin pan and eating one or two.
Makes 12 muffins.
                                                  Bon Appetit! SignatureInessa
BottleShot
 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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