Architectural
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Portuguese 19th Century Plaster Column
$3,250.0041.75"H x 13.50"W x 13.50"D
Dimensions: 41 ¾” H x 13 ½” W x 13 ½” D
A supremely elegant Portuguese 19th century sculpted plaster column for Neoclassical beauty in any interior or patio. The column features a small abacus (the top surface) for elevating a plant or vase, accented by festoons that hang low to drape over the fluted pattern on the shaft. Note how time and exposure to the elements have left a tactile patina of craquelure and pitting . A square plinth base grounds the column for stability. Please view the detailed images to see the current condition of this dramatic pedestal.
Top surface: 11” diameter
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Portuguese 19th Century Carved Stone Pedestal Sink
$4,995.0035.50"H x 25.88"W x 21.50"D
Dimensions: 35 ½” H x 25 ⅞” W x 21 ½” D
A Classical pedestal sink from Portugal, 19th century, carved from stone in the form of a scallop shell as if designed by the artist Botticelli himself to draw Venus from the sea. The sink basin is now wonderfully patinated in such a depth of texture color that accentuates the delicate curves of the shell. There are three holes and the back for a faucet and the columnar base is also notched along the back to run the plumbing. This will make a stunning feature of any garden or bathroom. Please view the detailed images to see the current condition.
Column diameter: 8”
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French 19th Century Set of 3 Hand-carved Marble Corbels
$6,500.0038.25"H x 8"W x 6.50"D
Dimensions: 38 ¼” H x 8” W x 6 ½” D
French 19th century–or earlier–ensemble of three hand-carved stone corbels. They are substantial pieces, likely used as decorative supports or architectural elements around a fireplace or softening the geometry of a roofline. It is truly extraordinary how the artist has decorated these elongated panels with naturalistic floral and leaf designs–which include roses, lilies, sunflowers, and ivy–rendered in tactile softness that belies the density of the stone. Outside of an architectural function, the grouping could be displayed in one’s home like stela from the ancient world: sculptural markers to guide the way or commemorate a significant event. Please view the detailed images to see the current condition. Sold as a set of three.
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Portuguese 18th Century Carved Stone Column
$6,500.0039.50"H x 16"W x 15.25"D
Dimensions: 39 ½” H x 16” W x 15 ¼” D
A fabulous 18th century, or earlier, carved stone column from Portugal, best described as Gothic or Romanesque in style, using the familiar acanthus motif around the capital. By the artist’s hand and tools the hard stone has been shaped to incredible depth within the folds of the leaves as they spread across the circumference. The abacus (the flat top surface) is rather irregular in shape either by time or extraction from the original architecture. Today it would make an extraordinary pedestal to uplift a garden urn or vase–inside or for the patio. The radiant column capital is accented with rope or cord elements that drape onto the shaft with small leaves. Square plinth base is similarly affected as the top in areas of loss and discoloration, which has been gently cleaned to appreciate the natural color and textures of the stone. Please view the detailed images to see the current condition of this dramatic pedestal.
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Portuguese Pair of 19th Century Carved Stone Pinnacles
$12,995.0045"H x 21"W x 21"D
Dimensions: 45” H x 21” W x 21” D
A monumental pair of 19th century carved stone architectural finials from Portugal to add symmetry and drama to any structure, or placed as standalone works of art to appreciate their sculptural qualities. Likely they were once the finishing touches on gate posts at the entrance of a grand estate, referencing a number of global artistic styles to communicate wealth and worldly sophistication. Note how they can separate into three sections for easier transport and installation on-site (see the image gallery). The pinnacle is a sharp point which spreads into a rather angular cone, matching the battlement notches that flares out between the junction of the two upper parts of the urn. The urn body is rather flat at the shoulder and decorated with a series of flat, circular applications around the circumference. The foot has a pronounced gadroon texture above a square base. Please view the detailed images to see the current condition. Sold as a pair only.
Base dimensions: 13 ½” square
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Dutch 19th Century Carved Mahogany Transom
$2,650.0030.25"H x 45"W x 1.38"D
Dimensions: 30 ¼” H x 45” W x 1 ⅜” D
A dramatic frame of carved mahogany found in the Netherlands, likely a 19th century architectural detail such as a transom above a doorway. This pierced window is without glass allowing one to fully appreciate the skilled carvings of talons punctuated with rosettes, closing around an unfilled oval cartouche at the center. The piece is symmetrical to mount vertically or horizontally as a decorative feature on the wall–or built in–as it was intended. Cleaned and polished with a paste wax. Please view the detailed images to see more.
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French Pair of Massive Painted Columns
$6,500.00122"H x 19"W x 19"D
Dimensions: 122” H x 19” W x 19” D
Simply incredible pair of very tall French architectural columns, in the Ionic order. These Neoclassical wonders are crafted of wood and plaster, thickly painted white, the column’s magnificent capitals are carved in layers of pattern: four spiraling volutes mark the corners in between a row of egg & dart molding, with a foliate motif softening the transition from the volutes to the shaft. Fluting and fillets (the flat part in between the grooves) visually elongates the shaft–except at the middle where stylized carvings of a blooming reed spring up. Heavily patinated square bases support the columns and are without decoration. Installed as an architectural detail or simply as decor, the columns will make an impression anywhere. Please view the detailed images to see the current condition. Sold as a pair.
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French Set of 19th Century Entry Doors
$8,995.0096.25"H x 45.25"W x 1.75"D
Dimensions: 96 ¼” H x 45 ¼” W x 1 ¾” D
A large set of French wooden entry doors with its original worn painted finish. The doors make a statement and are made of solid wood with wooden geometric moldings. Original forged iron hardware is found throughout. Be sure to view the detailed images to see the current condition of this pair of antique doors.
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19th Century Set of 3 Oxidized Copper Panels
$8,995.0031"H x 65.25"W x 8.50"D
Dimensions: 31”H x 65-¼”W x 8-½”D
This 19th century set of three oxidized copper panels are an incredible addition to any space. The deep relief floral motif showcases the great patina they have gained since their creation during the 1820’s. They easily hang from wooden brackets secured to the back. Although sizable, they are quite light. The thin, easily malleable metal makes a great medium for such detailed design. Make sure to view all of the photographs to get a closer look at these wonderful panels. Sold as a set of three.
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Antique Walnut & Oak Church Railing
$2,200.0052"H x 147"W x 11.75"D
Dimensions: 52”H x 147”W x 11-¾”D
This stunning antique architectural piece is a conversation starter in any space! Originally it would have served as an altar rail at the front of a church. It is beautifully carved with three fleur de lis forms, one on each end and one designating a separate space offset from the center. A slanted shelf measuring 8-½”deep is divided into four large sections and one noticeably smaller section. The oak and walnut have gained a warm patina over the years, accentuating the stellar craftsmanship of the woodwork. All sides are finished, make sure to view the detailed images for a closer look!
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English 19th Century Chimney Pot
$865.0031"H x 15"W x 15"D
Dimensions: 31”H x 15”W x 15”D
A remarkable Victorian-era English terracotta chimney pot. This antique architectural element serves as both decorative and functional additions to traditional chimney flues. During the 1800s, coal was used more and more to heat homes, however the smoke that it produced was thick and toxic. Heightening one’s chimney increases its draw, removing this unwanted pollutant from interiors more quickly. Multiple indoor fireplaces was a luxury afforded to those with means, and these toppers would often be indicative of an estate’s socioeconomic status. The more intricately designed pots were more expensive and therefore prized by those that wished to project their wealth by ornamenting their homes with beautiful embellishments to their fireplace smokestacks. The worn black and white paint adds so much character to the design. Most were not painted, making this one particularly stylish. One of the crown’s tines have been lost, adding to its antique charm. Today, they can still function as intended, however their excellent patination and form make for exceptional garden ornaments and/or decorative objects.
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Large 19th Century English Window Frame
Original price was: $2,600.00.$2,100.00Current price is: $2,100.00.118.625"H x 78.875"W x 1.375"D
Dimensions: 118-5/8″H x 78-7/8″W x 1-3/8″D
A painted and patinated window frame from England. This large architectural element is comprised of 32 total panels, all of which lack glass. The window is fashioned with peg joinery and the muntins have been chamfered for a more finished look. The antique blue-gray paint has weathered magnificently and this antique architectural element is ready to be incorporated into your design.
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18th Century Swedish Carved Stairwell Ornament
$2,500.0024.75"H x 44.5"W x 1.25"D
Dimensions: 24 3/4″H x 44 1/2″W x 1 1/4″D
A masterfully carved stairwell ornament from the early part of the 18th century, Sweden. Dating to 1730, this curved decorative detail was once a part of a grand staircase. The ornament is adorned with wonderfully carved scrolls and acanthus leaves. An interesting piece of architectural salvage that provides an interesting form and texture to your space. Copper bracing on the posterior provide added structure and rigidity to the carved antique piece.
Architectural Antiques and Decorations From Fireside Antiques
Fireside Antiques’ collection of decorative items and furniture pieces are great for adding that unique touch to any space. More than any modern item you’ll find today, architectural antiques have the potential to make your design stand out in a classy and understated way.
Perhaps it’s the history behind architectural antiques, but the amount of ambiance and weight they bring to a room is palpable. Not only that, but you’ll feel great pride in owning each item that today’s modern finishes simply can’t replicate.
After all, rustic and antique furnishings are very much “en vogue” in today’s interior design scene. If the piece has a history behind it to act as a talking point, then that’s all the better.
In our shop, we carry all sorts of architectural antiques and decorative items. Anything that’s in decent shape (enough to be restored, then loved by a new owner) can fall into this category, especially if it’s a decorative or miscellaneous item that doesn’t fit with other categories.
While different antiques come through our doors all the time, we specialize in things like pedestals, ladders and steps, iron gates, door and stairwell ornaments, panels, urns, and much more. Many of our stone and metal pieces are also just as well at home in your garden or patio as they are in your home.
Choosing the Right Architectural Antiques
Not every architectural antique is meant to fit with every space. After all, while a stone finial or iron gate will look beautiful outdoors in your garden, a library ladder or staircase—with its near-priceless aged wood—would succumb to the elements outside and lose much of its innate beauty.
In the same way, while a large, wrought-iron gate would surely look beautiful in your library, that doesn’t always seem like the most logical place to put it. An iron gate works best outdoors, attached to an iron fence, just as originally intended.
Of course, if you aim to preserve your beloved antiques and put them on display, situating them outdoors may not match your goals in the first place. The point is that architectural antiques vary widely in form and function, so it’s important to evaluate the decoration’s place and purpose before adding it to your home.
At Fireside Antiques, you’ll find only the best architectural antiques to incorporate into your designs, whether you’re renovating a home or simply purchasing an antique for your own enjoyment. All of these items have found a second purpose as statement pieces, conversation starters, and simple, pleasing decor.