With 30 years of experience sourcing vintage items and antiques of the highest caliber and craftsmanship, at Jean-Marc Fray Antiques we believe nothing epitomizes the beauty and importance of a piece quite like the material itself. From cherished hand-blown glass to sleek metals to warm, honey-toned woods – each material was chosen by craftsmen for rich aesthetic affect and time-tested quality. Procured from across France and Italy, our collection of furniture, lighting, and art is a treasure trove of materials. Known for our eclectic mixture of styles, we believe it is equally important to mix materials – layering woods, fabrics, marbles and more to create a visual feast of textures and tones. By juxtaposing these materials, each is given prominence and allowed to shine in the space. Additionally, these materials bring their own lavish histories and give provenance to a piece and its craftsmanship.
Here are another four of our favorite materials to showcase at our gallery:
1. Leather
Just as with Italian culture, Italian craftsmanship is layered in history and pride. Italian leather is a perfect example of the timeless pursuit of perfection that has shaped Italy’s hand-made goods through centuries. Synonymous with luxury and elegance, Italian leather has come to represent artistry and heritage in Florence and throughout the country. Leather tanners and craftsmen using centuries old techniques carefully guard the “Made in Italy” label, allowing only the highest quality to market.
Leather production has been linked to the city of Florence since the Etruscan era. It began to flourish in Tuscany in the middle-ages. In 1200, Florence established the Guild of Cuoiai and Galinai, which brought together artists working in the process of leather. The guild also forced them to follow strict regimes that ensured production quality. In the 1400s, more and more wealthy Florentine families invested in the craft, resulting in substantial growth. Due to the presence of oak and chestnut trees in Tuscany, the area was the focus of production. The process of vegetable tanning was invented in the region and is still used today. During the Renaissance era the cities of Florence and Venice grew further and became world-renowned for their skills and techniques. They attracted patrons from across Europe, and continue to do so today.
2. Rosewood
Highly sought after for the quality, rosewood has been an impactful material in furniture design. Referring to a number of hardwoods with rich brown hues, rosewood is tough and strong. As it accepts a high polish, this wood has been integral to furniture making, instrument making, and other high-end home details. The preeminent rosewood used is Brazilian Rosewood, which has a lovely sweet smell giving it the name. This wood has been highly sought after since introduced to Europe hundreds of years ago. It became popular in high-end furniture making during the late 1800s, and again in mid-century modern furniture. It is easily used for veneer and parquetry detailing.
At the Jean-Marc Fray we are especially drawn to rosewood pieces that emphasize the natural abundance of tones in the wood. From large case pieces such as buffets to small parquetry details, rosewood can be found throughout our gallery.
3. Mirror
Throughout human history mirrors have existed in some form. From polished copper in Mesopotamia to silver coated metal in early China, even early mirrors were considered important in the human understanding of self. Though glass blowing had previously been used to create mirrors, the Venetian Mirror Guild, which started in the 1300s, were integral to creating mirrors as we know them today. Perfecting the use of mercury glass while adding ornate detailing and frames, the Venetian mirrors were highly sought after. Mirrors, along with lace and glass, lead to Venice’s importance as a city of import and major hub of international trade. To this day, Venetian mirrors and Murano glass mirrors are still at the height of beauty.
The mirrors at our gallery range in style, yet all showcase the extraordinary detail of antique and vintage craftsmen. As always we are especially drawn to the Venetian etched mirrors and elaborate frames. Likewise, we carry many pieces of furniture that are adorned with mirror veneer.
4. Terracotta
The term terracotta, or baked earth in Latin, refers to clay based earthenware ceramics. It is often used in art to describe ceramics not crafted on a throwing wheel. Yet, it also refers to the organic red and orange hues associated with the clay. Terracotta figurines have been found in Pakistan dating back to 3000-1500 BCE. Almost all ancient civilizations used terracotta including the ancient Greeks, Indian cultures, and more. At the Jean-Marc Fray gallery we have an array of beautiful terracotta busts from Italy and France. We are drawn to the warm tones of the clay and the striking artistic detail. We also bring in many lovely terracotta gardening urns.
