Question 1

Did they have wedding rings in the 18th century?

Accepted Answer

Yes, wedding rings have a long history, stretching back to ancient Egypt. The first diamond engagement ring was created in 1477 by Archduke Maximillian of Austria. Browse a wide array of vintage and contemporary wedding rings on 1stDibs.

Question 2

How did art change in the 18th century?

Accepted Answer

In the 18th century, art changed in style from Baroque to Rococo and Neoclassicism. Art became more ornamented and idealized during the Rococo period and then shifted toward a style that emulated the artwork of ancient Greece and Rome near the end of the century. You’ll find a variety of fine art on 1stDibs.

Question 3

How do you identify 18th-century furniture?

Accepted Answer

To identify 18th-century furniture, you can research your piece in the context of the prevailing styles of the period or consult a certified appraiser or experienced antique dealer. To identify your item on your own, look over it for maker's marks, such as carvings, stamps, brands and labels. Researching the marking can help you determine the maker of your piece, and from there, you can search further to learn more about your particular item. Without a maker's mark, the best approach is to consider the characteristics of the dominant furniture styles during the 18th century. In England, these included William and Mary, Queen Anne, Georgian, Chippendale, Hepplewhite and Sheraton. Some French furniture styles of the 1700s include Louis XV, Louis XVI and Régence. Find a diverse assortment of 18th-century furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 4

What is the most important painting of the 20th century?

Accepted Answer

What painting is the most important of the 20th century is largely a matter of personal opinion. Some notable works produced during the period include Paul Cézanne's Mont Sainte-Victoire, Pablo Picasso's Les Demoiselles d'Avignon, Henri Matisse's The Dance and Jackson Pollock's Lavender Mist. Shop a large selection of 20th-century paintings on 1stDibs.

Question 5

How can I identify 18th century brass candlesticks?

Accepted Answer

One way to check if your brass candlesticks are from the 18th century is to look for the two seams running lengthwise on either side. This is from when the candlestick was molded in two halves and then soldered together. You’ll find a variety of candlesticks of all shapes and sizes from some of the top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 6

Which individuals are considered the Big Three of 18th-century cartoons, and why?

Accepted Answer

The individuals considered the Big Three of 18th-century cartoons are William Hogarth, James Gillray and George Cruikshank. Although the 18th century saw a widespread increase in illustrations in newspapers, these three illustrators were particularly well-known for their work. Hogarth's work was extremely diverse, ranging from serious, realistic paintings and portraits to satirical and moralistic illustrations filled with symbolism. A British caricaturist, Gillray is remembered today for his artworks representing political and social satires, like his political cartoons against George III of England. Despite being a prolific caricaturist, Cruikshank is now most famous for illustrating the works of Charles Dickens. On 1stDibs, find a wide variety of illustrations.

Question 7

What kinds of figures elevated the use of porcelain in 18th century Europe?

Accepted Answer

At the end of the 17th century, Europe went into a frenzy over porcelain. Asian porcelain was highly sought after, and spurred the foundation of the Meissen factory in France, where hard porcelain went on to be made. You’ll find a large collection of porcelain pieces from many of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

18th Century English Painting

Antique 18th Century and Earlier English Paintings

Portrait of a Young English Gentleman

Antique 18th Century and Earlier British Charles II Paintings

Large 17th Century English Still Life Depicting Seafood, Fruit and Wine

Antique 18th Century and Earlier British Paintings

Large Portrait of an English Gentleman

Antique 18th Century and Earlier English Paintings

Pair of English hand colored prints

Antique 18th Century and Earlier English Paintings

English Portrait of a young man

Antique 18th Century and Earlier English Paintings

A Charming English Naive Portrait, original frame, 1793

Antique 18th Century and Earlier English Paintings

Portrait of a Lady English School, Oil on canvas

Antique Late 18th Century English Georgian Paintings

English Maritime Original Oil on Board Signed William Anderson Dated 1797

Antique 18th Century and Earlier English Decorative Art

English School Painting of a Little Girl

Antique 18th Century British Paintings

Portrait of English Gentleman, 18th Century

Antique 18th Century Great Britain (UK) Paintings

18th Century, Portrait of a Boy, English School

Antique Late 18th Century English Sporting Art Paintings

Late 18th Century English Sporting Painting in the Manner of George Stubbs

18th Century Old Masters Portrait Paintings

Alexis Simon Belle 1
The Honorable Mildmay Fane, English Portrait by Alexis Simon Belle 18th Century

Antique Late 18th Century English Paintings

18th Century Portrait of a Young Gentleman in Oval Frame, English School

Antique Mid-18th Century English Paintings

English Gentleman Portrait