Italian Luigi XV Mantel

Louis XV Style mantel, Agostinos, Naples

Here's the new mantel I've been posting about, in the recent series regarding my new flat here in Naples- I had seen this about maybe two years ago- and finally decided to get it- as you can see, it's quite a showy piece- and it'll be fun to share with you how it looks installed in the new apartment we're planning, for my personal and business use.  Agostinos has some wonderful Italian imports- the owner goes over four times a year- and I've been bringing clients there for many years.  I did find some antique "chenet" (fire dogs) today- at The Antiques Center of Naples- but am holding off on those.  They were old brass, and not the gilt bronze that I long for.  Better yet, we might instead use selenite logs or obelisque as fire dogs.  I love that Jean Michel Frankenstein look! :) Cheers!  DF *****

Naples, Italy, Naples, Florida Mercato, Mercato

Imagine this strada in Italy... as opposed to the one I work in, here in Naples, Florida.

There is a Mercato, or market, in Napoli, just as the new one here in Florida. I love the contrast between the two. The former is over two thousand years old, ours here is about three years old... Enjoy! DF *****

Italian Painted Furniture

from the Venetian Garden Collection

Gran Canal Collection

Doors, inspired by ancient palazzi

Leta and friends!

I just fell in love with this furniture line from Italy, called Porte Italia...they're located just north of Venice, and make incredible things for the home...or a very luxe hotel. I hand picked some items to show you, from the Gran Canal and Venetian Garden collections. I also found a great pic of my friend Leta Austin Foster, her room setting at the Red Cross Showhouse is very Italian in inspiration, mixing modern with more classical pieces in a totally chic, globetrotter style. It reminds me of when C.Z. Guest partnered with Willy Rizzo, remember that? This all makes me want to drop everything and jet off to VENEZIA! ENJOY! DF *****