Who invented the reflector telescope in the 17th century?

Sir Isaac Newton invented the reflector telescope in the 17th century. He created it as a replacement for the refracting telescope, which tended to have poor optics. Find a collection of antique and vintage telescopes on 1stDibs from some of the world’s top sellers.

Who was one of the most important portrait painters of the 19th century?

British artist John Singer Sargent was one of the most important portrait painters of the 19th century. Other notable portraitists from the period include James Abbott McNeill Whistler, Eugène Delacroix, Théodore Géricault, Gustave Courbet, Édouard Manet, Mary Cassat, Claude Monet and Pierre-Auguste Renoir. On 1stDibs, find a wide variety of portrait paintings.

What art style was used by the 19th-century French painters?

The French painters of the 19th century worked in two styles. Neoclassicism dominated the first half of the century, and Impressionism was the most common style during the second half. On 1stDibs, you can find a variety of French paintings.

Were there cannons in the 16th century?

Yes, there were cannons in the 16th century. The history of the weapon dates back to 12th-century China. Historical records suggest that the first cannons appeared in Europe during the Islamic wars in Iberia in the 13th century. Find a range of antique cannons on 1stDibs.

Was there glass in the 16th century?

Yes, the history of glass-making goes back much further than the 1600s. It’s believed that they were making glass in different parts of the world at least 3,600 years ago, maybe even longer. During the late Bronze Age in Egypt and in Western Asia, glassmarking advanced significantly and was manipulated extensively to produce vessels, jewelry, and works of art. Shop a range of antique and vintage glass on 1stDibs.

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

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.

What furniture was used in the 16th century?

A variety of furniture was used during the 16th century. Items commonly found in homes include high-backed armchairs, chests, stools, benches and cupboards. Most European artisans active during the time period produced pieces out of oak wood. Find a large collection of antique furniture on 1stDibs.

What is 17th-century furniture called?

What 17th-century furniture is called varies. The general term for all furniture produced 100 years ago, including 17th-century pieces, is antique furniture. You may also choose to be more specific and describe a piece by its style. Theatrical and lavish, the Baroque style was prevalent across Europe from the 17th to the mid-18th century and spread around the world through colonialism, including in Asia, Africa and the Americas. Baroque furniture was extravagant in all aspects, from shape to materials. 17th-century pieces from England often feature characteristics of the William and Mary style, such as crisp lines, maple and walnut veneers, inlaid bands and C-scroll ornaments. On 1stDibs, explore a variety of antique furniture.

Did they have wedding rings in the 18th century?

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.

How did art change in the 18th century?

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.

How do you identify 18th-century furniture?

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.

How can I identify 18th century brass candlesticks?

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.

What are the major features of Dutch 17th century portraiture?

17th-century Dutch portraiture has many similarities to other Baroque paintings, including rich colors, dark shadows and intense lighting. Many famous Dutch Baroque works lean toward realism. In Dutch portraiture, props and detailed backgrounds are uncommon. You'll find a collection of Dutch Baroque paintings from some of the world’s top art dealers on 1stDibs.

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

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.

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

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.

19th Century Telescope

Victorian Telescope

Brass And Leather Telescope

Brass Telescope On Tripod

Category

Antique 1860s British Nautical Objects

Materials

Brass

Brass and Mahogany Telescope, Mid-19th Century

$772

Brass and Leather Telescope, Mid-19th Century

Located in Milan, IT

Brass and leather telescope signed P. Carpenter London Improved Day or Night in the mid-19th

Category

Antique 1860s British Nautical Objects

Materials

Brass

Brass and Leather Telescope, Mid-19th Century

$1,069

Large and Beautiful telescope in Brass, Probably Late 19th Century

Located in Knivsta, SE

Large and beautiful telescope in brass, probably from the late 19th century. Slider for adjustable

Category

Antique Late 19th Century European Scientific Instruments

Materials

Brass

Large and Beautiful telescope in Brass, Probably Late 19th Century

$4,012

Brass Telescope with Mahogany Handle, UK, Early 19th Century

Located in Milan, IT

Brass telescope with mahogany handle from the early 19th century signed Gilbert & C. London, a

Category

Antique 1810s British Nautical Objects

Materials

Brass

Brass Telescope with Mahogany Handle, UK, Early 19th Century

$1,010

Antique Telescope, 3 Draw, Pocket Refractor, Dollond, London, Mid-19th Century

By Dollond, London

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

astronomical use by renowned manufacturer Dollond and dating to the mid-19th century. Perfect for bird

Category

Antique 19th Century English Early Victorian Scientific Instruments

Materials

Brass

$Antique Telescope, 3 Draw, Pocket Refractor, Dollond, London, Mid-19th Century$

Antique Telescope, 3 Draw, Pocket Refractor, Dollond, London, Mid-19th Century

$849

Antique 19th Century English Victorian Brass Telescope on Stand in Original Case

Located in New Orleans, LA

Antique 19th Century English Victorian Brass Telescope on Stand in Original Case.

Category

Antique 19th Century English Victorian Scientific Instruments

Materials

Brass

Antique 19th Century English Victorian Brass Telescope on Stand in Original Case

$4,900

MID-19TH CENTURY SHIP’S TELESCOPE WITH PATRIOTIC-PAINTED HANDLE

Located in York County, PA

MID-19TH CENTURY SHIP CAPTAIN’S TELESCOPE WITH PATRIOTIC-PAINTED, LEATHER HANDLE GRIP:

Category

Antique 19th Century American Political and Patriotic Memorabilia

Materials

Brass

MID-19TH CENTURY SHIP’S TELESCOPE WITH PATRIOTIC-PAINTED HANDLE

$8,750

Early 19th Century Dolland Gilt Brass Spy Glass Telescope

By Dolland

Located in Lincolnshire, GB

A fine Dolland spy glass telescope. Rare carved tortoiseshell around the main barrel. Signed around

Category

Antique Early 19th Century English Scientific Instruments

Materials

Brass

Early 19th Century Dolland Gilt Brass Spy Glass Telescope

$993

Signed 19th Century French Brass Tabletop Telescope with Tripod

Located in San Francisco, CA

A French 2 inch diameter brass refracting telescope retaining its original tripod, signed on the

Category

Antique Mid-19th Century French Victorian Scientific Instruments

Materials

Brass

Signed 19th Century French Brass Tabletop Telescope with Tripod

$1,250

19th Century Carved Mahogany Music Stand on a Telescope Wood and Brass Stand

Located in Savannah, GA

19th Century Carved Mahogany Music Stand on a Telescope Wood and Brass Stand. Dimensions: 22

Category

Antique 19th Century English Music Stands

Materials

Brass

19th Century Carved Mahogany Music Stand on a Telescope Wood and Brass Stand

$2,995

19th Century Antique Brass Telescope with Mahogany Handle English Manufacture

Located in Milan, IT

Brass telescope with mahogany handle, English manufacture, early 19th century. Focus with three

Category

Antique 1810s British Nautical Objects

Materials

Brass

19th Century Antique Brass Telescope with Mahogany Handle English Manufacture

$950

Late 19th century Brass Telescope C. Baker High Holborn London

Located in Palm Springs, CA

A late 19th or early 20th century telescope by the prestigious English maker C. Baker of 244 High

Category

Early 20th Century British Decorative Objects

Materials

Brass

Late 19th century Brass Telescope C. Baker High Holborn London

$1,500

Antique Nautical Telescope, Brass and Rope, Mid-19th Century

Located in Milan, IT

Brass telescope with handle covered with braided rope of the mid-19th century. Focusing with two

Category

Antique 1860s British Nautical Objects

Materials

Brass

Antique Nautical Telescope, Brass and Rope, Mid-19th Century

$1,069

Antique Nautical Telescope, Brass and Leather, Mid-19th Century

Located in Milan, IT

Brass telescope with leather-covered handle, focusing on three extensions, complete with dust

Category

Antique 1860s British Nautical Objects

Materials

Brass

Antique Nautical Telescope, Brass and Leather, Mid-19th Century

$713

Early 19th Century Small Six Draw Pocket Telescope by Cary

By Cary

Located in Lincolnshire, GB

An early 19th century lacquered brass six drawer pocket telescope by Cary, London. Unusual focusing

Category

Antique Early 19th Century English Scientific Instruments

Materials

Brass

Early 19th Century Small Six Draw Pocket Telescope by Cary

$1,164

19th Century Brass Telescope on Wooden Tripod by A. Bardou, Paris

By A. Bardou

Located in Milford, NH

. Appears to be in good working order, dating to the second half of the 19th century. A few minor rubs

Category

Antique Mid-19th Century French Scientific Instruments

Materials

Brass

19th Century Brass Telescope on Wooden Tripod by A. Bardou, Paris

$2,750

Telescope

Located in Peekskill, NY

This large early brass telescope. It's quite an impressive show piece. The brass scope is 72 inches

Category

Antique Late 19th Century Unknown Industrial Scientific Instruments

Telescope

$3,400

19th Century Brass Telescope Antique Marine Navigation Instrument

Located in Milan, IT

Brass telescope with round section, with three extensions focusing and handle covered in leather

Category

Antique 1870s Scientific Instruments

Materials

Brass

19th Century Brass Telescope Antique Marine Navigation Instrument

$1,010

19th/20th Century Hammersley London Brass Telescope or Spyglass on Tripod

By Hammersley

Located in Milford, NH

London,” circa late 19th or early 20th century, in very good condition, with some surface pitting on the

Category

Antique Late 19th Century English Scientific Instruments

Materials

Brass

19th/20th Century Hammersley London Brass Telescope or Spyglass on Tripod

$1,650

Antique Telescope, English, 3 Draw Refractor, Silberrad Aldgate, 19th Century

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

by Silberrad of Aldgate, London and dating to the early 19th century, circa 1810. Perfect for bird

Category

Antique Early 19th Century English Georgian Nautical Objects

Materials

Mahogany

$Antique Telescope, English, 3 Draw Refractor, Silberrad Aldgate, 19th Century$

Antique Telescope, English, 3 Draw Refractor, Silberrad Aldgate, 19th Century

$952

Antique Telescope, 2.75" Refracting Achromatic Library Scope, Early 19th Century

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

This is an antique telescope, 2.75" refracting achromatic library Scope, early 19th century

Category

Antique 19th Century Great Britain (UK) Victorian Scientific Instruments

Materials

Brass

$Antique Telescope, 2.75" Refracting Achromatic Library Scope, Early 19th Century$

Antique Telescope, 2.75" Refracting Achromatic Library Scope, Early 19th Century

$1,363

Brass and Rope Telescope Second Half of the 19th Century

Located in Milan, IT

English brass telescope with leather and rope handle, made in the second half of the 19th century

Category

Antique 1860s British Nautical Objects

Materials

Brass

Brass and Rope Telescope Second Half of the 19th Century

$832

Brass and Leather Telescope, Second Half of the 19th Century

Located in Milan, IT

second half of the 19th century. Focus with three extensions complete with dust flap and sun visor cap

Category

Antique 1880s American Nautical Objects

Materials

Brass

Brass and Leather Telescope, Second Half of the 19th Century

$832

19th Century Nautical Brass Telescope Wooden Support Old Astronomical Instrument

Located in Milan, IT

Brass telescope with leather-covered handle from the second half of the 19th century. Four

Category

Antique 1860s British Nautical Objects

Materials

Brass

19th Century Nautical Brass Telescope Wooden Support Old Astronomical Instrument

$713

Early 19th English Music Stand with Telescoping Adjustable Top

Located in Savannah, GA

Early 19th English Music Stand, Classic design with telescoping adjustable top, turned & banded

Category

Antique 19th Century English Music Stands

Materials

Brass

Early 19th English Music Stand with Telescoping Adjustable Top

$5,600

19th c. Negretti Zambra Telescope on Tripod

By Negretti Zambra

Located in Milford, NH

19th c. Negretti & Zambra telescope mounted on a wooden & brass tripod. Body of telescope is

Category

Antique 19th Century British Scientific Instruments

Materials

Brass

19th c. Negretti Zambra Telescope on Tripod

$1,800

Tripod Telescope

Located in Norwell, MA

Brass tripod telescope by Ross of London.

Category

Antique 19th Century More Folk Art

Materials

Brass

Tripod Telescope

$22,000

British Brass Telescope

Located in New York, NY

Late 19th century English polished brass telescope by WRAY of London. On vintage brass detachable

Category

20th Century English Scientific Instruments

British Brass Telescope

$12,850

Antique Nautical Telescope, Brass and Mahogany, First Half of the 19th Century

Located in Milan, IT

Large brass telescope with mahogany-coated handle from the first half of the 19th century. Focus

Category

Antique 1840s British Nautical Objects

Materials

Brass

Antique Nautical Telescope, Brass and Mahogany, First Half of the 19th Century

$1,664

19th Century Antique Three Draw English Brass Telescope with Handle Leather

Located in Milan, IT

Brass telescope with leather handle, made at the end of the nineteenth century, focusing with three

Category

Antique Late 19th Century British Nautical Objects

Materials

Brass

19th Century Antique Three Draw English Brass Telescope with Handle Leather

$1,188

19th Century Victorian Brass Telescope On A Stand, c.1890

Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent

19th Century Victorian large brass telescope from an English country manor with 31/2inch refracting

Category

20th Century British Victorian Scientific Instruments

Materials

Brass

19th Century Victorian Brass Telescope On A Stand, c.1890

$4,378

Early 19th Century French Walnut and Brass Telescope Signed Vincent Chevalier

Located in Dallas, TX

This antique telescope was created in Paris, France by Vincent Chevalier; standing on a tripod with

Category

Antique Early 19th Century French Scientific Instruments

Materials

Brass

Early 19th Century French Walnut and Brass Telescope Signed Vincent Chevalier

$2,600

Late 19th Century Brass Antique Two-Extension Telescope with Leather Handle UK

Located in Milan, IT

the late 19th century. Two-extension focus. Maximum length 25.5 cm, minimum 12.3 cm, focal diameter 2

Category

Antique 1880s British Nautical Objects

Materials

Brass

Late 19th Century Brass Antique Two-Extension Telescope with Leather Handle UK

$653

19th century Antique Telescope of Chromed Brass with Leather-Covered Handle,

Located in Milan, IT

Seagrove & C. Portseal, with dedication to Lieut Washer R.N.R. Made in the second half of the 19th century

Category

Antique 1860s British Nautical Objects

Materials

Brass

19th century Antique Telescope of Chromed Brass with Leather-Covered Handle,

$950

Large 19th Century Brass Tabletop Telescope by William Harris Co.

By William Harris

Located in Godshill, Isle of Wight

the 19th century. The telescope stands on brass tripod and has an easy 360 swivel, it has 3 piece

Category

Antique 1820s English Early Victorian Scientific Instruments

Materials

Brass

Large 19th Century Brass Tabletop Telescope by William Harris Co.

$3,768

19th Century Brass 3 Draw Telescope Antique Maritime Navigation Instrument

Located in Milan, IT

9.79, focal diameter 4,5 cm – inches 1.7. French manufacture from the second half of 19th century

Category

Antique 1870s Nautical Objects

Materials

Brass

19th Century Brass 3 Draw Telescope Antique Maritime Navigation Instrument

$1,426

Brass Telescope French Manufacture of the Second Half of the 19th Century

Located in Milan, IT

manufacture of the second half of the 19th century. In excellent condition, fully functional, complete with

Category

Antique 1860s French Nautical Objects

Materials

Brass

Brass Telescope French Manufacture of the Second Half of the 19th Century

$713

Brass Telescope with Leather Handle, UK, Second Half of the 19th Century

Located in Milan, IT

Telescope of brass and leather, English manufacture from the second half of the 19th century. Focus

Category

Antique 1860s British Nautical Objects

Materials

Brass

Brass Telescope with Leather Handle, UK, Second Half of the 19th Century

$1,069

Brass Telescope with Mahogany Handle, Italy, Second Half of the 19th Century

Located in Milan, IT

half of the 19th century. Focus with extensions. Maximum length 131.5 cm - 51.77 inches, minimum 30 cm

Category

Antique 1860s Italian Nautical Objects

Materials

Brass

Brass Telescope with Mahogany Handle, Italy, Second Half of the 19th Century

$2,080

Antique French Telescope

Located in New Orleans, LA

From Marseilles, France, this large 19th century antique telescope will instill any room with

Category

Antique 19th Century French Louis XVI Scientific Instruments

Materials

Brass

Antique French Telescope

$5,098

19th Century Brass 3 Draw Telescope Antique Nautical Navigation Tool

Located in Milan, IT

Brass telescope with round section, with three extensions focusing and handle covered in leather

Category

Antique 1870s Nautical Objects

Materials

Brass

19th Century Brass 3 Draw Telescope Antique Nautical Navigation Tool

$1,426

19th Century French Small Brass Antique Telescope with Leather-Covered Handle

Located in Milan, IT

Small brass telescope with leather-covered handle, French manufacture of the second half of the

Category

Antique 1870s French Nautical Objects

Materials

Brass

19th Century French Small Brass Antique Telescope with Leather-Covered Handle

$891

19th Century 3 Draw Brass and Wood French Antique Terrestrial Telescope

Located in Milan, IT

Small brass telescope with wood covered handle. French manufacture of half of the nineteenth

Category

Antique 1850s Scientific Instruments

Materials

Brass

19th Century 3 Draw Brass and Wood French Antique Terrestrial Telescope

$1,010

Antique English Dollond Telescope on Stand

Located in New Orleans, LA

Antique English Dollond telescope on stand.

Category

Antique Late 19th Century English Scientific Instruments

Materials

Brass

Antique English Dollond Telescope on Stand

$4,500

English Tabletop Telescope in Solid Brass

Located in Astoria, NY

English tabletop telescope with adjustable height in solid brass, with a screw lock and standing

Category

Antique Late 19th Century English Victorian Nautical Objects

Materials

Brass

English Tabletop Telescope in Solid Brass

$900

Telescope Monocular, circa 1900

Located in Praha, CZ

Length in folded state 32cm. Fully functional in beautiful original condition. Only the front lens has a small fragment around the edge (which cannot be seen in the picture at all).

Category

Antique Late 19th Century Austrian Belle Époque Nautical Objects

Materials

Brass

Telescope Monocular, circa 1900

$665

Monumental Antique English Brass Telescope Tripod Maritime Instrument Nautical

Located in Dayton, OH

Rare and genuine 19th century English Victorian brass telescope on tripod stand. Features amazing

Category

Antique 19th Century Victorian Nautical Objects

Materials

Brass

Monumental Antique English Brass Telescope Tripod Maritime Instrument Nautical

$3,400

English Telescoping Buffet Server or Table in Mahogany

Located in Austin, TX

top enclosing three tiers when in table form, telescoping upward to create three shelves when opened

Category

Antique 19th Century English Serving Tables

Materials

Mahogany

English Telescoping Buffet Server or Table in Mahogany

$6,850

A French telescope on stand

Located in San Francisco, CA

A fine French 2.75" diameter hand held brass leather covered telescope made and signed by R&C

Category

Antique 19th Century French Scientific Instruments

Materials

Brass

A French telescope on stand

$975

French Telescope on Wooden Stand

Located in Atlanta, GA

French brass and leather telescope on wooden stand.Stands in the shop at 60 " hi, but can be

Category

Antique 19th Century French Scientific Instruments

Materials

Brass

French Telescope on Wooden Stand

$6,250

English brass telescope on tripod.

Located in San Francisco, CA

A fine English brass 3 1/2" diameter telescope with rack and pinion focus on a later oak floor

Category

Antique 19th Century English Scientific Instruments

Materials

Brass

English brass telescope on tripod.

$6,850

Monumental Brass Telescope and Tripod

Located in Wilton, CT

adjustment. This is a working telescope with high power optics. Tripod adjusts from 29" to 60". The scope is

Category

Antique Mid-19th Century English Campaign Scientific Instruments

Materials

Brass

Monumental Brass Telescope and Tripod

$4,800

Important Charles C. Hutchinson Telescope

By Charles C. Hutchinson

Located in Peekskill, NY

This large important telescope is signed Charles C. Hutchinson, Boston. It's quite an impressive

Category

Antique 19th Century American Industrial Scientific Instruments

Important Charles C. Hutchinson Telescope

$4,200

Superb Example Of A Dolland Telescope

Located in Lincolnshire, GB

A great example of a 3.5" floor standing refracting telescope with table top tripod and original

Category

Antique 19th Century English More Furniture and Collectibles

Superb Example Of A Dolland Telescope

$13,600

Leather Cased Telescope, by E. Bryan

Located in London, GB

A fantastic leather cased nickel plated telescope made by E. Bryan of Manchester with textured

Category

Antique 19th Century Scientific Instruments

Leather Cased Telescope, by E. Bryan

$986

Floor Standing Telescope by West, London

Located in Lincolnshire, GB

A good 2.5' astronomical floor standing telescope by West in the original oak case and original

Category

Antique Mid-19th Century English More Furniture and Collectibles

Floor Standing Telescope by West, London

$2,713

English Brass Telescope On Later Stand

Located in San Francisco, CA

An English brass telescope made and signed by E. ELLIOT/TELESCOPE HOUSE, 63 FARRINGDON RD., LONDON

Category

Antique 19th Century English Scientific Instruments

Materials

Brass

English Brass Telescope On Later Stand

$2,450

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19th Century Telescope For Sale on 1stDibs

At 1stDibs, there are many versions of the ideal 19th century telescope for your home. Frequently made of metal, brass and wood, every 19th century telescope was constructed with great care. Whether you’re looking for an older or newer 19th century telescope, there are earlier versions available from the 19th Century and newer variations made as recently as the 20th Century. A 19th century telescope made by Victorian designers — as well as those associated with Georgian — is very popular. Dollond, London, Bardou Son and Charles C. Hutchinson each produced at least one beautiful 19th century telescope that is worth considering.

Finding the Right Collectibles-curiosities for You

Antique and vintage collectibles and curiosities can bring whimsy and wonder to any interior.

Decorating with old scientific instruments, historical memorabilia and vintage musical instruments, as well as other authentic collectibles and curiosities that can be found on 1stDibs, presents an opportunity to create a unique, natural history museum-like atmosphere in your home that can provoke conversation as often as it pays tribute to how far we’ve come in understanding our world.

And bringing collectibles and curiosities into your space is actually on trend — Wunderkammern, or curiosity cabinets, were all the rage in Europe during the 1500s and continued to have adherents there and in the U.S. in the following centuries. Today, however, they’re experiencing a real surge in popularity and influencing how many interior designers are furnishing and decorating homes — combining contemporary with antique, scientific with tribal, earthly with extraterrestrial, Les Lalanne tables with Flemish tapestries.

The original Wunderkammern were entire rooms filled with objects demonstrating their owners’ worldly knowledge: A proper one included artificiala or preciosa (objets d’art); naturalia (such as skeletons, shells, minerals); exotica (taxidermy or dried plants); and scientifica (scientific instruments), frequently alongside religious relics and ancient artifacts.

Pay tribute to a history of rich and diverse musical traditions that have taken shape all over the world by decorating your home with a collection of antique and vintage musical instruments — with a little help from strong hanging wire or some wall hooks, vintage brass instruments such as a gong, French horn or trumpet can help elevate a home office or complement the efforts you’ve made to ensure a welcoming vibe in your home’s entryway. Bells or antique wind instruments can add provocative metallic contrasts to dark woods as tabletop decorative objects.

Create an intriguing focal point with Georgian scientific instruments, such as stick barometers with mahogany cases or lacquered brass telescopes. These items stem from an era named for the monarchies of the four King Georges, who ruled England in succession starting in 1714 (plus King William’s reign, which lasted until 1837). Just as there was beautiful jewelry produced during the period that today is coveted by collectors, there is much to be found in the collectibles and curiosities realm too.

Wanderlust, nostalgia and a shared love of good design are contributing factors to certain trends in decorating — just as vintage trunks and luggage have reappeared as furniture or home accents in a bedroom or foyer, decorating with globes, maps or nautical objects is similarly rooted in the allure of travel and a penchant for the stylish finishing touch that collectibles bring to our homes.

Find a wide range of antique and vintage collectibles and curiosities on 1stDibs.

Questions About 19th Century Telescope

Who invented the reflector telescope in the 17th century?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Sir Isaac Newton invented the reflector telescope in the 17th century. He created it as a replacement for the refracting telescope, which tended to have poor optics. Find a collection of antique and vintage telescopes on 1stDibs from some of the world’s top sellers.
Who was one of the most important portrait painters of the 19th century?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
British artist John Singer Sargent was one of the most important portrait painters of the 19th century. Other notable portraitists from the period include James Abbott McNeill Whistler, Eugène Delacroix, Théodore Géricault, Gustave Courbet, Édouard Manet, Mary Cassat, Claude Monet and Pierre-Auguste Renoir. On 1stDibs, find a wide variety of portrait paintings.
What art style was used by the 19th-century French painters?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
The French painters of the 19th century worked in two styles. Neoclassicism dominated the first half of the century, and Impressionism was the most common style during the second half. On 1stDibs, you can find a variety of French paintings.
Were there cannons in the 16th century?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Yes, there were cannons in the 16th century. The history of the weapon dates back to 12th-century China. Historical records suggest that the first cannons appeared in Europe during the Islamic wars in Iberia in the 13th century. Find a range of antique cannons on 1stDibs.
Was there glass in the 16th century?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Yes, the history of glass-making goes back much further than the 1600s. It’s believed that they were making glass in different parts of the world at least 3,600 years ago, maybe even longer. During the late Bronze Age in Egypt and in Western Asia, glassmarking advanced significantly and was manipulated extensively to produce vessels, jewelry, and works of art. Shop a range of antique and vintage glass on 1stDibs.
What is the most important painting of the 20th century?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
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.
What furniture was used in the 16th century?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
A variety of furniture was used during the 16th century. Items commonly found in homes include high-backed armchairs, chests, stools, benches and cupboards. Most European artisans active during the time period produced pieces out of oak wood. Find a large collection of antique furniture on 1stDibs.
What is 17th-century furniture called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 23, 2024
What 17th-century furniture is called varies. The general term for all furniture produced 100 years ago, including 17th-century pieces, is antique furniture. You may also choose to be more specific and describe a piece by its style. Theatrical and lavish, the Baroque style was prevalent across Europe from the 17th to the mid-18th century and spread around the world through colonialism, including in Asia, Africa and the Americas. Baroque furniture was extravagant in all aspects, from shape to materials. 17th-century pieces from England often feature characteristics of the William and Mary style, such as crisp lines, maple and walnut veneers, inlaid bands and C-scroll ornaments. On 1stDibs, explore a variety of antique furniture.
Did they have wedding rings in the 18th century?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
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.
How did art change in the 18th century?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
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.
How do you identify 18th-century furniture?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 13, 2024
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.
How can I identify 18th century brass candlesticks?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
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.
What are the major features of Dutch 17th century portraiture?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
17th-century Dutch portraiture has many similarities to other Baroque paintings, including rich colors, dark shadows and intense lighting. Many famous Dutch Baroque works lean toward realism. In Dutch portraiture, props and detailed backgrounds are uncommon. You'll find a collection of Dutch Baroque paintings from some of the world’s top art dealers on 1stDibs.
Which individuals are considered the Big Three of 18th-century cartoons, and why?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJanuary 10, 2025
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.
What kinds of figures elevated the use of porcelain in 18th century Europe?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
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.

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