At this time of year with long nights and winter weather, many people look again at ways to introduce additional light in to their interiors, whether by adding to or changing their choices of lighting or by considering adding an additional mirror to their home. In the 18th century, girandoles were specific forms of mirrors with candle arms located in front of the mirror plates, the idea being to reflect the light back in to the room for maximum effect... read more

Happy New Year to all our friends and clients, including those we haven't met yet but will meet for the first time this year. Returning after our festive break we have decided to begin a new series of blog posts this time focusing on specific types of items in our collection. We begin with one of the cornerstones of our business and indeed of the antiques trade in general-seat furniture. As a dealership we seek out the best in design,... read more

One of the most famous names in antique furniture is that of Gillows. The precise date at which the Gillows family began to trade in their own right as cabinetmakers has not been established with complete accuracy but it was around 1730.  The founder of the firm was Robert Gillow (c.1702-1772) completed an apprenticeship as a cabinetmaker in Lancaster, becoming free in 1727 or 1728, initially working in partnership with George Haresnape. Gillow was a catholic, as was Haresnape, and... read more