Although there is evidence that Romans played backgammon on special boards, the games table did not become popular until the concept of the Medieval ‘great hall’ gave way to the building of smaller homes (called hotels in France) with individual rooms for different functions. One room was designated for games of chance. Gambling was rampant amongst the aristocracy and required furniture for that purpose. Enter … Continue reading What is a Games Table?
Do you have memories of what Valentine’s Day meant to you as a child? For many, it was a day to look forward to. For others, not so much. It might surprise you to know that Valentine was an early Christian saint who was burnt at the stake for his practice of wedding Roman soldiers who were forbidden to marry.The concept of romantic or courtly … Continue reading Valentine’s Day memories
Have you ever purchased a piece of furniture that just didn’t smell right? I have, and I paid for my mistake in terms of money and time invested. Early in my career as an antique dealer, I went to an auction and saw a piece of furniture that interested me. I carefully examined the book case with glassed doors flanking a drop leaf desk with … Continue reading What Do You Do with Smelly Furniture?
A reader contacted me recently and asked me about fixing dents on teak furniture. She had read my other blogs on cleaning and protecting teak and wanted my opinion on this topic. I knew that there was information online so rather than reinvent the wheel, I planned to simply send her some links to read. Sure enough, there were several sites that gave information on … Continue reading What to Watch out for when Fixing a Dent in Antique Furniture
What is your first reaction when you look at this image of the sofa for sale? Would you buy it? I received an email today from a friend who had received three pictures from someone she knew who was trying to sell an antique sofa and chair. The email was passed on to me in case I might know someone who was looking for such … Continue reading Why Good Photos help to sell your Antiques.
Johanne Yakula 