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The Orient Express
Back in the 17th century, talk in Europe’s finest literary and fashion salons was of the Orient. There were decorative techniques like japanning, cloisonné and Chinoiserie, and materials like porcelain and bamboo. New styles, like Chinese Chippendale, began popping up in parlors and palaces across the continent. It was amazing, exotic and scandalous. By the late 19th century, Americans were raving about bamboo and snapping it up as quickly as they could.
Now, after decades of languishing out of favor, Oriental furniture is making a big comeback. According to style-setters, bamboo is one of the hottest things around, japanned pieces are all the rage, and Chinoiserie is an absolute must-have. So climb aboard the Orient Express for a tour of several lovely pieces from the Frontera showroom.
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Mandarin Armchair
Elegant, sophisticated and lovely. Who would have thought that Chippendale and Chinese sensibilities could meet in such an embrace? The results are, in a word, stunning. Bamboo with a hand-caned seat. $740.00 |
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Art de Chine Bird Cage
Cages aren’t for the birds anymore. Immortalized as decorative accent pieces by the Victorians, these stylish coops are once again becoming all the rage. They’re exotic, attractive and just the thing to spice up a living room or foyer. $136.00 |
Japanned Secretary
An ode to 17th-century fascination with the Orient, this breathtaking secretary makes a dramatic fashion statement – but doesn’t take dictation. Black lacquered wood and antiqued brass hardware. $3,553.60 |
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Bennett Armoire
Call it Chinese Modern meets 21st century techno demands. Roomy enough for all your television and stereo accoutrements, this armoire doesn’t trade one iota of form for function. So, style and sense can live in harmony after all… Made of mahogany with silverleaf hardware. |
Art de Chine CD Box
Why should all things useful be drab and unattractive? After all, even Mao suits became a hit on Western runways. Take this CD box. It looks like an antique Chinoiserie piece, but it functions as a contemporary utilitarian tool. Fabulous! $96.00 |
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Art de Chine Waste Basket
A good eye finds beauty in the details. And this lovely Chinoiserie-style waste basket can help pull a room together discreetly. It even makes the trash look good. Made of bamboo and painted lacquer panels. $57.00 |
Turned Bamboo Mirror
Bamboo is setting sail once again, so don’t miss the boat. This delicate turned mirror is an ideal way to start your new collection. Made of wood with a black lacquered finish. $740.00 |
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Oxblood Lamp
Inspired by traditional Chinese vase design, the sensuous proportions of this glazed porcelain lamp will light up any room. Woman or vase? You decide. $358.00 |
