Muscat – A showcase of newly arrived antique furniture is now on display in the Azaiba showroom of Richwood Antiques, Oman’s only importer of verified 19th century European antiques furniture.
Since it’s launch in Oman in 2011, Richwood Antiques has seen a marked growth in interest among buyers and collectors in Oman and this latest collection consists of highly desirable items such as magnificent mahogany dining tables, chairs, bookcases and sideboards, constructed in exotic timbers of mahogany, rosewood, satinwood and walnut with finely carved and decorated intricate inlays and fine brass-work, all skillfully executed by craftsmen of the period.
Exquisite gold gilded mirrors from France and smaller decorative items include beautiful polished cast-brass lamps and silver-plated serving dishes. Rosemary Whelan, owner of Richwood Antiques in Muscat, is a specialist in the sale of 19th century European antique furniture and decorative items.
With more than 20 years experience in the trade, Rosemary is an affiliated member of CINOA (Internationale des Negociants en Oeuvres d’Art) an international association for art and antique experts from around the world. She is currently the only member of this association trading in Oman and possibly the region. She is very excited about the new collection. “Over time I have learned from my Omani clients and what they like. They have discerning tastes and appreciate quality.
I have brought a collection back with me that I feel will delight all antique lovers in Oman. I carefully chose the pieces in England, Ireland and France before having them professionally packed and shipped to Oman. Many pieces such as the magnificent gilded mirrors are in great demand so I sourced several more for buyers, each of them unique and hand-crafted in the 1900s,” she said. Some buyers purchase high quality antiques not just for their beauty and enjoyment but also consider the investment value.
Materials used, such as mahogany, are no longer available for furniture making as it is a protected species and illegal to cut down the remaining trees. Coromandel wood is now entirely extinct. The traditional cabinet making skills used in their construction have faded away as industrial development has allowed machines to take over.
This rarity and other factors such as the item’s maker, history, condition and market trends lead to a to a very positive effect on value. “Many people buy stocks and shares, or keep their money in the bank. Risky business some might say considering the current global economic climate. Others realise the benefits of putting their money into very high quality collectible antiques and art because at the same time they can enjoy and appreciate their investment in their homes. Stocks and shares can disappear in an instant, antiques and art can always be insured and never have to leave the house,” she added.