Objects of Desire & Curiosities

De Ferranti's Objects of Desire category contains decorative objects and curiosities that would befit the collections of Grand Tour collectors.

The Grand Tour was an extended trip through Europe (or the world) taken by wealthy, upper-class young men, a tradition which peaked in the 18th century and slowly faded in the 19th century. Considered a cultural rite of passage, it was designed to complete their education by exposing them to classical history, art, and foreign societies

From all corners of the globe, these De Ferranti collections and their objects, some with history, others with natural beauty, are a testament to the types of artifacts that would make it back into the Grand Tour collections of individuals.

 

Decorative Objects and Curiosities for Collected Interiors

The collection sits between the spirit of the Grand Tour and the cabinet of curiosities: objects chosen not simply to fill a room, but for material character, provenance, craftsmanship or visual intrigue. Some are functional, others purely sculptural. Together they form a changing group of collectible design, decorative artefacts and natural specimens intended for interiors where individual pieces are allowed to carry their own presence.

 

Materials, Craft and Natural Rarity

De Ferranti's Basins range moves from carved stone and ceramics to rock crystal and semi-precious materials, while Baths & Bath Tubs explores bathing vessels as substantial design objects. The Objects & Artifacts collection brings together vessels, candle holders, door pulls, inlaid pieces and other sculptural objects. Rock Crystal focuses on carved and fashioned quartz, and Tabletops & Furniture extends related skills into mosaic, hardstone, petrified wood and other specialist surfaces.

Across these decorative objects and curiosities, the common thread is the relationship between material and making. Carving, inlay, micromosaic, pietre dure, relief work, metal detailing and the use of naturally expressive stone allow an object to function as both practical element and point of collection.

 

Specification, Sourcing and Placement

Because the category ranges from basins and baths to furniture, lighting components and smaller art objects, specification should begin with the individual piece. Scale, weight, fixing, plumbing, surface care, installation and the behaviour of natural materials all require project-specific review. Samples, drawings and available technical information can be discussed where relevant, together with sourcing or commissioning possibilities.

 

Project Guidance and Enquiries

For project guidance, availability, pricing, samples or further information, please contact us. Your enquiry will come directly to De Ferranti, and we will be pleased to discuss suitability, quantities, lead times and options for your project.