Architectural Antiques

AA# 49870

Circa: 1910 Condition: Age Consistent / Frame Support Added Finish: Varnished renewed

Measurements: 36" tall x 73" wide x 24” deep Seat height: 16”

Wood Slat, divided seat bench originally sat in the hallway of the Kandiyohi Court House in Willmar.

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One of the things that we love about antiques is that each nick tells the story of the people who owned it before. When we're lucky enough, the previous owners leave a piece of themselves in the form of handwriting; however, the printed qualities can tell a lot about the time period from which it came too. This crate is a smorgasbord of typefaces with each one containing its own unique story. On this single crate, four different categories of typefaces can be identified: sans serif, script, stenciled serif, and slab serif. Before we dive in, let's go over the definition of each of the terms.

A serif is the line attached to the end of a letter's stroke. We like to think of them as the feet. The stenciled in numbers on the side of the crate as well as the "W.&A. GILBEY" are both examples of a serif typeface. However, they are different types of a serif with different histories. Stenciled type was used in the early 19th century by a small group of English engineers and surveyors to label their technical drawings before becoming more commonly used in the 20th century

The "W.&A. GILBEY" belongs in a subcategory of a serif known as a slab serif. This means that the serif has sharper corners and doesn't transition smoothly into the letter stroke as a regular serif does. The variation of this particular slab serif was designed in the mid-1800s. It's popularity died down in the 1920s until a revival in the 1950s.

Since the type that says "TEN YEARS OLD" doesn't have any serifs (or feet) attached to the letters, it's a san serif. The san serif typeface reached popularity in the early 1900s and reached its peak in the 1920s and 30s. The clarity and legibility from a distance made it popular for display uses.

Lastly, "They Royal" is an example of a script. More specifically, it's an example of a Spenserian script similar to the iconic Coca Cola and Ford logos. Spencerian was the standard cursive script taught in schools from the 1860s to 1920s and was common during this time period.

Knowing the history of these typefaces can help pinpoint a time period from when the crate, or at the very least the type stamp on the crate, was designed. Taking all of these histories into consideration, a clearer image of the time frame comes to shape. At the very earliest, the stenciled type and script indicate mid-1800s, while the revival of the slab serif suggests 1950s at the latest. Once all of the overlapping time periods are considered, the time frame is narrowed down to the early 1900s.

There’s nothing better in the winter than coming in from the frigid outdoors, to a warm and inviting space. There are a number of essential elements required for creating the ideal winter hideaway. 

1. Mantel A mantel is a great way to create warmth in a room. A mantel serves as the center piece for a room. The hearth, whether intended for fires or not, creates a surprising an unique aspect to a room. Whether your filling your mantel with art, candles, or an actual fire a mantel is a necessity for this winter. 

2. Dark Woods Dark woods create a feeling of warmth and coziness. A cherry or dark chocolate wood create an inviting and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for combating the harshness of winter. There are a number of pieces that often are constructed using rich woods. Mantels, furniture, doors, and more can be found made from this element. 

3. Warm lighting Antique lighting casts a warm and inviting light to all spaces. The best use of antique lighting in order to create warm lighting, is the use of wall sconces. Wall sconces cast light upwards, enveloping in a room in diffused light. Sconces paired with Art glass casts optimal lighting along with the illusion of warmer temperatures. 

4. Seating  Proper seating is an obvious necessity for any room. Appealing seating makes a room that much more likely to be used. Antique seating is great for these types of rooms. Often made of leather and wood, these pieces prove to be both able to withstand the test of time in regards to both durability and style. 

From the Venetian island of Murano, this premiere glass is considered to be some of the best in the industry

It is estimated that glass production in Murano began in 8th century Rome. The islands glass makers were considered to be prominent citizens in the society and were greatly respected in the community.  Over time these artists perfected a number of glass making techniques.

In 1921, lawyer Paolo Venini and antique dealer Giacomo Capellion teamed up to found Capellion Venini & C. This new company stressed the quality manufacturing standards of classic Murano glass, while taking a new approach to the traditional styles. Venini collaborated with numerous manufacturers and artsts in order to create new and unique pieces. 

Dale Chihuly is a prominent figure in the modern Murano glass industry. His work combines a plethora of colors in order to create these ornate sunbursts. 

Orni Halloween, a trained aeronautical engineer and co-founder of Artmide Group, became a prominent figure in Murano glass production. 

As we approach the winter months, proper mudrooms are necessary in order to avoid tracking dirt and water into the depths of your home.  1. Hooks The utmost necessity to any mudroom. Hooks intentionally placed in areas of a room are necessary for easy access to coats and allow proper drying for all winter gear!  

2. Storage  In colder states, it is assumed that most people own an abundance of coats, boots, snow pants etc. In order to make these items more easily available, yet also void of clutter, proper storage is necessary for an aesthetically pleasing yet functional mudroom. 

4. Sink  The ample amounts of salt present during the winter months can often decrease the longevity of winter gear. In attempt to avoid the usual wear and tear, a sink in order to rinse off harmful salt is crucial. Additionally they can prove to be quite useful in the warmer months whether its for gardening, or rinsing off muddy pets. 

5. Pendant lights  Last but not least, proper lighting is fundamental for any room. Here at Architectural Antiques, we think that that the most functional and stylish type of light for mudroom are pendant lights. Pendant lights cast a stylish and functional glow to any room. We carry an assortment of pendant lights in-store and online at archantiques.com!

The Glensheen Mansion is Minnesota’s most notorious residences.  

Architect Clarence H. Johnston completed the Glensheen Mansion in 1908. The estate sprawls across 12-acres and includes 39-rooms along with a number of bridges and gardens. They once boasted having the largest private pier in all of Lake Superior. 

The house features many beautiful and unique architectural elements, including a plethora of opulent shades and sconces. Most notably Caldwell. 

As pictured below, The Congdon Mansion is home to Caldwell sconces. Caldwell is prominently featured at the Smithsonian Institution. Revered in his field as a pioneer in gas and electric lighting, all of his pieces are now considered to be museum quality. 

READ MORE ABOUT E.F. CALDWELL HERE:  http://archantiques.tumblr.com/post/141449487104/caldwell-a-pioneer-in-both-invention-and-design

There were multiple designers involved in the development of the Congdon Mansion, including John Bradstreet. As seen below, Bradstreet often took inspiration from the arts and crafts style along with various Japanese influences, resulting in a unique and beautiful aesthetic. 

Also involved in the design of the estate was William A. French. Minnesota’s most praised furniture designer, French was recognized nationwide for his ornate, hand-made furniture.

The estate was made infamous for the murders of Elisabeth Congdon and her nurse on June 27th 1977, at the hands of her daughter and son-in-law with aspirations of receiving their $8 million dollar inheritance. The mansion is often said to still be haunted by their lingering ghosts.

READ MORE ABOUT THE CASE HERE: http://openroadadventures.biz/blog/glensheen-mansion-murders-the-real-story

Revered in its field, Handel is considered to be one the premier light manufacturers since their opening in 1885. 

Founded when he was only 19, Philip Juluis Handel and his then partner Adolph Eydam (21) started painting glass and manufacturing lamps.

The reversed painted technique is one of the most notable trademarks of a Handel light. 

Ranging from a price tag of $2,000 to $80,000 Handels come in an abundance of shapes and sizes. 

Made in the early part of the 20th century, Teroca style shades are one of Handels most prized styles. These styles are reminiscent of a sunset, through a similar color pallet and the use of slag glass. 

Notable Handel artists include Bailey, Bedigie, Broggi, Gubisch, Matzow, Palme, and Parlow and Runge.

Through-out the world, you can find Architectural Antiques products. One of the most notable being Taiwan's’ very own Castle of Hsuehyun.

Salvaged from the historic Karcher Building in Illinois which is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places as of 2002.

The original building was constructed in 1927, and has since then been renovated. These renovations resulted in salvaged terracotta that can now be seen at the Castle of Hsuehyun.

The Castle of Hsuehyun is open year round, and features a number of interesting architectural elements.

People are like stained - glass windows. They sparkle and shine when the sun is out, but when the darkness sets in, their true beauty is revealed only if there is a light from within.

-Elisabeth Kubler-Ross

There are so many different methods of staining and forming glass, and it can often be a challenge to pinpoint its origin. 

Attributing to the cost of stained glass is the metals used in production.Metals vary vastly in price, therefore causing differences in price. For instance lead creates a yellow glass at $.97 per lb, whereas cranberry glass is created using gold chloride which is priced at $1193 per ounce making it one of the most desired in its nature. 

Stained glass in a home can be used in an abundance of ways. Whether its to create a sense of privacy or implement an interesting lighting effect, finding a stained glass window to fit in a space can be a challenge. Re-farming a window can be a great option for fitting a window into your space. 

The Fourth of July is recognized in many different ways across the nation, however there is often one similarity throughout all celebrations. The majority of this day is spent outside. Whether it’s on the lake, or the porch, a great exterior can make or break your holiday. 

Lush plants and trees can set a cozy and inviting atmosphere. They create a full outdoor effect and if strategically placed, they can create a desired sense of privacy. 

Interesting and surprising elements, such as antique weathered terracotta can create a unique space for your holiday. 

No outdoor recreational area is complete without proper furnishing. Gather round and enjoy some American barbecue on wrought iron tables. Paired with cushions, these tables can be comfortable, functional, and stylish. 

Exterior lights are necessary for any outdoor atmosphere. Although light does attract bugs, there are many ways to repel theses pesky critters. Citrus peels, white garlic, and white vinegar are all great natural ways to repel insects from invading your party.