Bathroom Antiques
Roman conquerors adopted the Greeks use of indoor bathing facilities, and improved the concept substantially. Providing an endless supply of running water via the revolutionary Roman aqueducts, lead pipes were used to transport water through the home. Attention to detail is evident in the extravagant design, technological advancement and expert craftsmanship displayed in the ancient bathhouses of Rome.
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In the art nouveau period, baths were set in alcoves and encased with china panels; washbasins and bidets were of glazed stoneware produced in shapes reminiscent of waves or seashells, and lavishly adorned with multi-colored reliefs.
Architect Armand Rateau designed some of the most famous bathrooms of the Art Deco period for the great couturier Jeanne Lanvin. Inspired by antiquity but highly fashionable, the bathroom features a bold contrast between the geometric patterns in the tile work, and the gentle flowing curves of the bathroom fixtures. Wrought iron was used for many decorative features, and all bathroom accessories.
Sinks & FaucetsMechanical restoration of antique faucets is relatively uncomplicated provided the piece is complete. Simply remove the handles by using a screwdriver to loosen the screws then lift off the grip. Using a 'plumber's wrench', remove the cover over each valve and the valves themselves. Unless one solid molded piece, disconnect the spout from the body of the faucet, remove and save the remnants of the washer for later reference. Any well-equipped hardware store will be able to provide the spigot washer, replacing the valves can usually be accomplished through specialty shops and will save time and energy over the less expensive process of reconditioning.
Two fundamental elements of the English bathroom were a vast washstand, and once converted to a running water supply, a custom made double walled porcelain antique bath boxed-in with mahogany. The quality of craftsmanship and material used in production of the English bathroom elevated the style to superior status from the mid 1800s thru the turn of the century.
The evolution of the commode was long and arduous, chamber pots, slop jars, and thunder mugs are just a few of the names used to describe the portable commodes of our past. The English first began improving their chamber pots in the late 17th century. Chairs, chests, trunks and bedside stands were devised, some with plush upholstery and fine adornments, to conceal chamber pots when not in use.
