One of the biggest surprises I encountered on my trip to Maine was the large number of fine antique stores. I'm not sure why this surprised me as the area is known for it's historical importance! Probably the most famous and finest of all of these shops is
R Jorgensen in Wells, Maine.
Not only featuring fine antiques the structures (a house and barn) date to the late 17th century. The gardens really steal the show here. On their
website many of the antiques are beautifully photographed outdoors.
Also be sure not to miss their fantastic, fun, and informative
blog. As you can see above there is something for everyone, from the primitive and rustic to highly refined antique.
Most of their antiques are so fine as to be real showpieces like this
Chippendale breakfront. One can imagine designing an entire room around one piece.
The inventory is staggering, almost like an encyclopedia of antiques. Merely reading the labels provides one with a real education!
The shop is also thoughtfully staged. I particularly loved this statue admiring herself in the ornate antique mirror.
Don't forget antique lighting!
If
crystal chandeliers or
sconces aren't your thing, maybe Gothic will entice you?
I had never seen such elegant little (milking?) stools such as these and was tempted to buy at least one for my fireplace at home.
Old houses which scream out for antiques generally have the problem of limited closet space. Large armoires, dressers, or
compactum such as this are not only handy then but a great focal point. I particularly liked the informality and architectural lines of this English pine piece.
And what hostess doesn't want a beautiful sideboard in her dining room for informal buffets? Doesn't this remind you out of an English Country House drama breakfast scene? Again, I love the architectural lines of this piece and all of the wonderful storage! Definitely stop by R Jorgensen if you find yourself in Maine and tell them I sent you (and to save me that orange painted neoclassical grandfathers clock)!
I received no compensation from R Jorgensen for this post. They actually had no idea I was photographing the shop as I walked through and I hope they approve of my posting! If they felt inclined as to give me a large discount there are a number of items I would gladly take off their hands though - call me!
You must have been in heaven! I saw at least a dozen things I would love to have.
ReplyDeleteStefan this will definitely be at the top of my list when I get to Maine. I am astounded at all of these gorgeous antiques!
ReplyDeleteXoxo
Karena
Feature: “Love Where You Live”
That clock rocks!
ReplyDeleteHello Stefan,
ReplyDeleteWe once visited Jorgensen's a decade or so ago on a trip to Maine, and came away with one of our most useful pieces of furniture -- an English mahogany, mid Victorian dumb-waiter or buffet. It is perfect for stacking up with large coffee table type books, which is how we use ours. It was a memorable visit, and wonderfully reminded by this post. Thanks, Reggie
I had a ball looking through Jorgensen's site — my choice would be the small pub table under "metals."
ReplyDeletekerry - walking through I liked one thing better than the next!! At the end of the day I still pick the orange clock though if I had to pick JUST one!
ReplyDeletekaren -you won't regret it. What a trip!! Maybe for your birthday next year!
ReplyDeleteUrban Cottage - so glad you like it too!!
ReplyDeleteReggie - sounds like a great piece! Do you have a photo of it anywhere on your blog or perhaps in the arch digest feature?
ReplyDeleteMark, I had missed that whole section and most of this in the store! Fascinating stuff!!
ReplyDeleteAnd I want that Charles X bed. That style seldom makes it all the way to Chicago.
ReplyDeleteThat formal milking stool would be wonderful & a huge conversation piece in your living room. I can see why you're in love w/the clock. Hope all is going well w/your new house!
ReplyDelete