Discover new stories of the past, uncover new objects carefully chosen for you with love, to enrich your home and nourish your soul.
BANCI FIRENZE CEILING LIGHT, 1960s
Banci Firenze gilt metal ceiling light, 1960s.
An elegant ceiling light manufactured by Banci Firenze in the 1960s. This beautiful ceiling light captivates with its naturalistic design, featuring intricately crafted oak leaves and fern fronds. The original gilt finish has developed a wonderful patina over the years, adding even more character and charm to the piece. Both decorative and functional, this exceptional light would make a beautiful addition to any interior. Banci Firenze – The company takes its name from its founder, Giuseppe Banci, who first opened its doors in 1899, initially as a shop. A restoration workshop specialising in chandeliers and mirrors was added later. The company quickly gained recognition for its skilled craftsmanship, remaining faithful to traditional techniques and materials. The district where Banci was originally based had been known since medieval times as a community of artists and craftsmen, and was renowned worldwide for its highly skilled metalworkers. Thanks to this artistic and artisanal community, Florence developed into an important economic powerhouse and a meeting place for distinguished artists and craftsmen. The city's rich heritage, together with the extensive knowledge Giuseppe Banci acquired through years of restoration work, inspired him in the 1930s to begin creating the first Banci chandeliers alongside his two children, Gastone and Ghita. Gastone passed away at a young age, but chandelier production continued under Ghita's direction. Three of Gastone's children later joined the company, and it was this generation that elevated the Banci name to new heights. They expanded into international markets and introduced new lighting designs, leading to new collections and distinctive creations, developed through a flourishing balance between unique handcrafted pieces and small-scale production runs. Today, Jacopo Banci works alongside his father, Massimo Banci, continuing a tradition that spans over 100 years and four generations, embodying the cultural heritage and artisanal pride of Florence. Dimensions: 23,5 × 21 × 9,5 cm Weight: 0,7 kg The ceiling light is in excellent vintage condition. Designed for six E14 bulbs.
MARQUETRY TABLE, 19. CENTURY
Antique Italian marquetry table, 19th century.
An exquisite decorative table crafted in Italy in the 19th century, distinguished by its rich and finely executed marquetry, combining various woods with mother-of-pearl inlays. The tabletop features an intricate arrangement of decorative inlays depicting botanical ornaments and geometric patterns. Particularly eye-catching are the animal motifs set within individual panels around the outer edge, depicting a kangaroo, camel, monkey, deer etc. Adding further historical and geographical interest is the inscription Triest, engraved into a mother-of-pearl inlay at the centre of the tabletop. With its exceptional decorative appeal, elaborate marquetry and unusual animal motifs, this table is a distinctive example of 19th-century Italian decorative furniture. Its unique character make it a beautiful addition to any interior. Dimensions: 67 × 61 × 56,5 cm Weight: 6,3 kg Good antique condition.
BRONZE SCULPTURE, VINCENZO GEMITO
Antique bronze sculpture by Vincenzo Gemito, Naples, 19th Century.
An exquisite bronze bust of a child by the Italian sculptor Vincenzo Gemito (1852–1929). The sculpture is distinguished by its remarkably realistic facial modelling, expressive eyes, delicate facial features and carefully rendered hair. The bust is mounted on an elaborately decorated socle featuring a sculpted cherub. The base bears the artist's signature and a circular foundry mark, comparable to marks found on documented bronze casts produced at Gemito's own foundry in Naples. This particular detail makes the sculpture especially interesting. In 1883, with financial support from Baron Oscar de Mesnil, Gemito established his own foundry, where he produced and cast his works during one of the most productive periods of his career. The foundry closed as early as 1886, making works associated with this period particularly interesting to collectors. This sculpture is therefore a fascinating collectible and decorative example of late 19th-century Italian sculpture, with a direct connection to Vincenzo Gemito's artistic and foundry practice. It offers a wonderful opportunity to own a sculpture associated with the work of this distinguished artist, whose creations are held in important museum collections. Dimensions: 34,5 × 21 × 20,5 cm Weight: 3,2 kg Excellent antique condition.
VINTAGE MEBLO GUZZINI SPACE AGE CEILING LIGHT
Ceiling lamp made by Meblo in the 1970s.
This stunning pendant light, produced by Meblo in collaboration with Harvey Guzzini, reflects the distinctive space-age aesthetic of the era.
This colorful and iconic lamp, which once illuminated many Yugoslav homes, remains a timeless design piece — perfect for brightening up a kitchen, dining room, or any contemporary interior. The domed shade emits a warm, diffused glow, creating a cozy and nostalgic atmosphere.
The lamp features its original height-adjustment mechanism, allowing you to easily adapt its position to your space and lighting preferences.
Learn more about the collaboration between Meblo and Harvey Guzzini in our blog post: https://raroantiques.com/harvey-guzzini
Dimensions: 74–185 × 37 × 37 cm
Weight: 1,2 kg
Good vintage condition. For three E14 bulbs.
CARVED GILTWOOD ANGEL
Carved giltwood angel, early 20th century.
A rare and unique hand-carved wooden wall appliqué depicting an angel or cherub. The entire carving is executed in the Rococo style and finished with gilt.
A particularly special feature of this piece is the 23 small mirror inserts set into the carved wood. Over time, the mirrors have developed a beautiful natural patina, adding to the character and authenticity of the piece. When touched by light, the small mirrors catch and reflect it, making the entire appliqué shimmer and creating a wonderful sense of depth and almost magical effect.
Dimensions: 36,5 × 22 × 6,5 cm
Weight: 0,5 kg
The appliqués are in excellent preserved condition. Price is for one.
BENTWOOD STOOL, REMEC & CO., 1920s
Adjustable bentwood stool, made by Remec & Co., Kamnik, in the 1920s.
This bentwood stool was produced by Remec & Co., following the tradition of bentwood furniture pioneered by Thonet. The company was a predecessor of the now legendary Stol Kamnik factory.
The stool is in excellent original condition and features an adjustable-height mechanism. The original Remec & Co. maker’s mark can also be found underneath the seat.
Dimensions: 64–80 × 62 × 46 cm Seat diameter: 41 cm
Weight: 6,5 kg
The stool is in exceptionally well-preserved condition.
HALA ZEIST POPART LIGHT, 1960s
Lamp made by the Dutch company Hala Zeist in the 1960s.
A striking and rare lamp, model 762, documented in an original Hala Zeist catalogue from March 1967. The lamp stands out for its distinctive black-and-white geometric pattern, which gives it a characteristic Pop Art appearance while also creating an interesting optical and artistic effect.
Model 762 was available in several different colour combinations, but the black-and-white geometric version is exceptionally rare among surviving examples and is particularly sought after by collectors of vintage lighting and Pop Art enthusiasts.
Another great feature is its versatility. It can be used as a table lamp, while the hook on the base also allows it to be mounted on the wall and used as a wall lamp.
More than just a functional lighting piece, this lamp is an expressive decorative object and a beautiful example of Dutch design from the 1960s.
Dimensions: 36 × 24 × 15 cm
Weight: 1 kg
The lamp is in good vintage condition. For an E14 bulb.
LEDA AND THE SWAN BRONZE SCULPTURE
Signed bronze sculpture – Leda and the Swan.
A beautiful bronze sculpture depicting Leda and the Swan, one of the classic motifs of Greek mythology that has inspired artists throughout the centuries.
The composition is highly dynamic, with gracefully intertwined lines of the body and wings creating a sense of movement. The bronze has developed a beautiful natural patina over time, beautifully enhancing the sculptural details and relief.
An artistic piece that would make a wonderful addition to an art collection, or an elegant decorative object that brings a touch of mythology and artistic character to an interior.
The sculpture is signed, although unfortunately the signature is illegible, therefore the artist and exact date of creation are unknown.
Dimensions: 21,5 × 20 × 17 cm
Weight: 3,4 kg
Excellent overall condition.
BAROCCHETTO MIRROR, 18TH CENTURY
Barocchetto mirror, made in the 18th century.
This mirror features an exceptional frame, hand-carved from wood and richly decorated with scrolls, foliate motifs and openwork carving. Particularly beautiful is the original polychrome decoration in shades of red, green and gold, now covered with a wonderful aged patina. Numerous losses to the paint and gilding reveal the different layers of the original finish and form part of the authentic appearance and history of the piece.
The mirror has a highly distinctive and decorative design, characteristic of 18th-century Northern Italian Barocchetto art.
Dimensions: 64,5 x 33,5 x 9 cm
Weight: 1,7 kg
The mirror is in good antique condition, with visible signs of age and wear consistent with its age.
LEATHER ARMCHAIR, CCA. 1930
Leather armchair, made in England, circa 1930.
A comfortable armchair designed in the Georgian style. The wooden frame features elegant shaping, while the leather upholstery has developed a beautiful aged patina with visible signs of use, giving the chair an authentic appearance and plenty of character. Brass studs add an additional decorative detail, enhancing its classic look.
A wonderful piece for a library, living room or office, where it can serve as a striking focal point while bringing a timeless touch of history to the interior.
Dimensions: 77 x 66 x 66 cm
Weight: 12,5 kg
The armchair is in excellent vintage condition.
VINTAGE FOLDING WALL-MOUNTED WALL RACK
Folding wall-mounted coat rack, mid-20th century.
An unusual and highly decorative coat rack, made of metal with a gilt finish. Its special feature is its practical yet decorative design – the two coat hooks can be pushed inward when not in use, transforming the piece into an exceptional decorative wall ornament.
Dimensions: 42,5 × 40 × 9,5 cm
Weight: 1,7 kg
The coat rack is in excellent condition.
VINTAGE SEWING CABINET WITH ROLL-TOP
Vintage sewing cabinet, made in Yugoslavia in the 1950s.
This wooden sewing cabinet was an exceptionally practical piece of furniture for seamstresses, designed to keep sewing supplies neatly organized and easily accessible. Its interior features several small compartments divided into two removable sections, allowing the cabinet to accommodate larger items when needed. Another charming detail is the roll-top cover, which can be easily closed after use, neatly concealing the contents inside.
Made in Yugoslavia, the cabinet is an interesting example of functional furniture from the mid-20th century, featuring a distinctive and practical design.
Today, it can be used for its original purpose or given a new role as a decorative and practical storage piece for small objects, craft supplies, collectibles, or other treasured items.
Dimensions: 56,5 × 54 × 36 cm
Weight: 3,5 kg
The sewing cabinet is in excellent vintage condition.
FISHERMAN SCULPTURE
Bronze fisherman sculpture, first half of the 20th century.
A beautiful bronze sculpture depicting a fisherman in a realistic pose, captured in the moment just before casting his fishing net. Dimensions: 27 × 12,5 × 10 cm Weight: 1,5 kg The sculpture is in excellent condition.
ENAMEL DESK LAMP, 1930s
Vintage desk lamp from the 1930s.
A beautiful metal desk lamp with an enamel shade, perfect for adding character and vintage charm to your desk or workspace.
Both the shade and the entire lamp are adjustable, making it not only stylish but also highly practical and functional. Lamps of this type were once extremely popular and commonly known as banker's lamps. Similar designs are still produced today, which is a testament to their timeless appeal.
Dimensions: 44 × 30 × 25 cm
Weight: 1,9 kg
The lamp is in excellent vintage condition. Suitable for an E27 bulb.
JARDINIERE, CCA. 1900
Jardinière, circa 1900.
A beautiful metal jardinière, richly decorated with ornate relief details that showcase fine craftsmanship and exceptional quality. Particular attention is drawn to the striking dragon-shaped handles, which give the piece a distinctive character and dramatic presence. Over the decades, the surface has developed a lovely natural patina that enhances the intricate relief decoration while adding authenticity and historical charm.
Whether displayed as a centerpiece on a table or as an elegant accent on a shelf, this jardinière is sure to become a focal point in any interior. Beyond its decorative appeal, it is also a functional piece that brings timeless elegance and the charm of the past into your home.
Dimensions: 30 × 18 × 15,5 cm
Weight: 2,1 kg
The jardinière is in excellent antique condition.
THE RAPE OF THE SABINE WOMAN, AMILCARE SANTINI, ITALY, CCA. 1960s
The Rape of the Sabine Women sculpture by Amilcare Santini, made in Italy, circa 1960
This beautiful reproduction of The Rape of the Sabine Women was created by Amilcare Santini (1910–1975) after the masterpiece by the renowned Renaissance sculptor Giambologna, originally executed between 1579 and 1583. It is considered one of the most important Mannerist sculptures, celebrated for its remarkable spiral composition, dynamic movement, and extraordinary technical mastery. The original was carved from a single block of marble and is displayed in the Loggia dei Lanzi in Florence.
The present sculpture was produced using a technique that Santini himself helped to develop. It was created by combining marble powder, alabaster, and resin into a specially formulated composite material, which was then poured into molds prepared by the artist. Once the material had hardened at room temperature, the sculpture was removed from the mold and carefully finished by hand. Santini was particularly renowned for producing faithful reproductions of masterpieces from Greek, Roman, and Renaissance art. His sculptures are regarded among the finest museum-quality reproductions ever made, admired for their exceptional craftsmanship and remarkable fidelity to the original works.
This sculpture offers a wonderful opportunity to bring both the beauty of classical art and the artistry of Amilcare Santini into your home.
Dimensions: 69 × 24 × 22 cm
Weight: 8.4 kg
The sculpture is in excellent vintage condition.
SUNBURST MIRROR, CHATY VALLAURIS
Sunburst mirror, produced in the prestigious French design studio Chaty Vallauris in the 1950s.
An iconic sunburst mirror, entirely made of metal and gilded. This mirror represents a timeless mid-century design that combines sculptural form and elegance.
Its authenticity is confirmed by the original studio stamp on the back of the mirror.
Chaty Vallauris was founded by François Chaty in the French town of Vallauris. The studio became known precisely for these types of mirrors, which are today considered legendary examples of mid-century French design and a highly sought-after collector’s item.
Today, this mirror is not only an exceptional decorative accent but a true work of art that brings warmth into any space on a daily basis.
Dimensions: 70,5 x 70,5 x 2,5 cm
Weight: 1,6 kg
The mirror is in excellent preserved condition.
CHAMPAGNE BUCKET VEUVE CLICQUOT PONSARDIN
Champagne bucket for Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin, manufactured by the French company Saint Hilaire Paris in the 1970s.
This silver-plated champagne bucket was produced for the prestigious champagne house Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin, as evidenced by the engraved signature on the bucket itself. Pieces like this were often supplied to luxury hotels, fine restaurants, and wine cellars, where they were used for the elegant presentation and service of this celebrated beverage.
Over the decades, the silver-plated surface has developed a beautiful iridescent patina, which is considered an important part of the character, history, and authenticity of such pieces.
Without a doubt, this is a piece perfectly suited for serving chilled drinks in style. Thanks to its timeless appearance, it also makes an excellent decorative accent for a cocktail corner, kitchen, or home bar.
Dimensions: 21 × 22 × 22 cm
Weight: 1 kg
The bucket is in good condition.
SCULPTURE OF VIRGIN MARY AND JESUS, 15. – 16. CENTURY
Polychromed wooden sculpture of the Enthroned Virgin and Jesus. Central Europe, probably late 15th or early 16th century.
An exceptional wooden sculpture depicting the Virgin Mary seated on a throne with the Christ Child resting on her lap, holding a book in His hand. Sculptures of this type are known by the Latin term Sedes Sapientiae, meaning "Throne of Wisdom." This title represents one of the oldest appellations of the Virgin Mary. The concept is that Mary serves as the throne upon which Christ sits, Christ being understood in Christian theology as the embodiment of Divine Wisdom (Sapientia Dei).
The medieval character of this sculpture is further reflected in the depiction of Christ. Rather than being portrayed as a typical child, as became common in later centuries, He appears as a miniature adult. This follows the medieval theological idea that Christ was, from birth, the perfect God and Teacher.
The sculpture displays finely carved details, revealing the hand of a skilled and accomplished craftsman. The polychromy itself bears witness to the passage of time through later historical overpaintings and restorations. The various layers of paint allow us to trace, almost visually, the centuries through which this remarkable object has survived.
You now have a rare, and perhaps unique, opportunity to acquire such a valuable piece of medieval sacred art—an object that inspires not only interest but also genuine admiration for the craftsmanship and artistic mastery of centuries past.
Dimensions: 28,5 × 17 × 12,5 cm
Weight: 1,3 kg
Well preserved, with age-related wear and traces of historical repainting and restoration.
VINTAGE COMBI LUX CEILING LAMP, STANISLAV INDRA
Combi Lux ceiling lamp, designed by Stanislav Indra for the Czechoslovak company Lidokov, 1970s.
A pair of ceiling lamps in a striking orange color, distinguished by their exceptional adjustability. Both lamp shades can be adjusted in height as well as angle, allowing the lamps not only to illuminate a room but also to highlight your favorite corners, artworks, or decorative objects displayed on walls and shelves.
If you are looking for lighting that is not only practical and well-made but also brings character and vibrancy to an interior through its color and design, this lamp is an excellent choice.
Dimensions: 57 × 39 × 12,5 cm
Weight: 2 kg
The lamps are in excellent condition. Suitable for two E27 light bulbs. Price is for one lamp.
BRONZE RELIEF DANTE ALIGHIERI
Bronze relief depicting Dante Alighieri, made in the first half of the 20th century.
A large wall-mounted relief portraying the great Italian poet Dante Alighieri. The relief is exceptionally well crafted, and over the decades the bronze has developed a rich patina that further enhances its character and artistic appeal. It was most likely produced in 1921 to commemorate the 600th anniversary of Dante's death.
Today, this bronze relief makes a wonderful decorative piece for a library, reading nook, or any interior where an artwork with a touch of history and classical culture is desired.
Dimensions: 29 x 22,5 x 2 cm
Weight: 3 kg
The relief is in excellent condition.
DESK BELL
Desk bell, late 19th century.
A metal desk bell that rings when the button on top is pressed. It was most likely used in establishments such as hotels, shops, or reception desks, where customers could use it to attract attention.
Throughout history, desk bells were primarily used in aristocratic households. During long dinners, they were used to summon a maid to serve another course or refresh drinks. This practice was especially common in America, whereas in Europe it was more customary for servants to remain near the dining table and attend to guests' needs directly. Desk bells became widely used across Europe during the 19th century, when hotels, restaurants, shops, and other public establishments created a growing demand for them.
Today, this bell can once again become a practical and decorative piece for your home, shop, or business.
Dimensions: 8 x 9 x 9 cm
Weight: 0,3 kg
The bell is in excellent condition and remains fully functional.
REVOLVING DRINKS STAND, CCA. 1900
Revolving drinks stand, circa 1900.
An exceptionally rare wooden drinks stand featuring a revolving metal tray divided into four sections, allowing bottles and glasses to be arranged neatly and conveniently. The stand retains its original castors, making it easy to move around a room. In addition to its practical function, it is distinguished by its elegantly crafted wooden frame and decorative details, making it a remarkable and highly decorative piece of furniture.
Pieces such as this were once found in prestigious bourgeois salons, where they were used for the elegant serving of drinks during social gatherings and formal entertaining. The revolving tray allowed guests easy access to their chosen beverage, while the castors ensured effortless movement between different areas of the room.
This is an ideal piece for collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate rare and unusual antiques. At the same time, it remains a wonderfully functional accessory for entertaining, allowing you to serve guests in style while impressing them with its exceptional design and historical charm.
Dimensions: 119 x 43 x 43 cm
Weight: 6.8 kg
The drinks stand is in excellent condition.
“OSTRICA” TABLE LAMP, GAMMA3, 1970s
“Ostrica” table lamp, manufactured by the Italian company Gamma3 in the 1970s.
This rare table lamp, named “Ostrica” (Italian for oyster), is a true design gem that perfectly captures the playful futurism and bold creativity characteristic of the Space Age design movement. Its name already reveals the designer’s inspiration: the sculptural form was created to resemble an oyster shell.
The vibrant orange exterior, typical of the era, provides a striking contrast to the soft cream-colored interior with a subtle pearlescent sheen. The upper inner surface is lined with a mirror, which helps reflect and amplify the light. The lamp can also be fully closed, further emphasizing its resemblance to an oyster.
Thanks to its ingenious design, this is not merely a functional lighting object but a genuine work of art. Even when switched off, it instantly adds character to a room and becomes a captivating conversation piece. It is also an appealing collector’s item, as examples in such well-preserved condition, complete with the original label, rarely appear on the market.
This exceptional lamp is a timeless design icon of the 1970s—ideal for collectors of Italian design, lovers of eclectic interiors, or anyone wishing to add a distinctive futuristic touch to their home.
Dimensions: 23 x 22 x 22 cm
Weight: 0,5 kg
The lamp is in excellent condition. Suitable for an E14 bulb.