On a sunny corner in the middle of West Palm Beach's Antique Row, the windows of Pierre Anthony Antiques & Interiors catch the eye of those seeking the genuine, and the genuinely unique. Larger than life, two human form sculptures from the Surrealism period (1924 to 1941) stand before a pair of 19th century Venetian consoles topped with 18th century French trumeaux. An original five-piece suite by the sculptor John Risley sits nearby on a Flokati rug and all are lit by Italian sconces from the 1950's.
Inside you will find an 8ft. square wall installation by Richard Anuszkiewicz, enamel on metal, offered for sale with a small painting of four men with a flag, oil on canvas, also by the artist in his college days. This is framed by a pair of 18th century Northern Italian corner armoires in which one can easily appreciate the elements later incorporated by Ruhlman and others in the Art Deco period. This is why they work well with a sofa signed by Paul Evans, several fine goatskin pieces by Aldotura, and a pair of leather and tubular metal fauteuils by Jacques Adnet. The large painting by African-American artist Paul Keene, an abstract salute to the robe in Gustav Klimt's "The Kiss" creates a backdrop for a pair of Empire Fauteuils with the original c. 1800 finish. The chandeliers include Venini, Vistosi, and Lalique. Sconces by Caldwell, two sets of four, c. 1900 one with rock crystal, and one with silver on bronze and copper hang near a pair of 17th century Italian still life paintings.
A 1980's Memphis style bar with neon lighting occasionally finds customers stopping by to enjoy a cool glass of water, a flute of champagne or one of Elizabeth's perfect martini's while they browse.
Soon you will realize that Pierre Anthony is more than antiques. It is a collection arising out of a philosophy of individuality, style, and ownership. No matter what price is paid, the ownership of art and historical objects is really a stewardship. The product of humankind's needs and expressions are too great, and the world's museums are too small to hold it all. For this reason we are privileged to have it all pass through our hands. When it does, it is our responsibility to care for it and pass it on.
Sometimes we decide to restore a piece to its original state; with others we honor the patina resulting from the life of the piece. Often we try to find a perfect balance. I invite you to enter our website and discover a collection distinguished as much by its originality, as by its authenticity.
When you are visiting Palm Beach, I look forward to welcoming you to Pierre Anthony Antiques & Interiors.
Elizabeth Janet Bonan