PRESS

MAKE IT COUNTRY

The look is elegant, but not over the top.

GUSTAVIAN STYLE

Sweden embraced international decorative arts and culture during the reign of Gustav III (1746-1792), who hired English, Dutch, Italian, and French cabinetmakers, painters, and plasterers to redo his royal palace in the neoclassical fashion favored by Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette.

Three hallmarks of period Gustavian pieces: graceful symmetry, reeding and/or naturalistic or neoclassical relief carvings, and pale-gray, buttercream, and white finishes.

ANYWHERE CHAIR

At home in rooms both formal and plain, Gustavian side chairs make perfect partners for American country antiques-especially when upholstered in classic Swedish ticking stripes in blue/white, gray/white, or red/white.

Gustavian-style furnishings enjoyed a remarkably long reign in Swedish interiors, remaining in production from 1790 through the 1860's.

CRYSTAL & CANDLELIGHT

Where winters are as long and as dark as they are in Scandinavia and New England, every effort is made to make the most of available light. Crystal chandeliers reflect sunlight by day, candlelight by night.

A c.1820 chandelier is fitted with hand-dipped beeswax candles to reduce drips; cleaning the crystal with vinegar and water makes it glisten.

PICKLED PINE

"Pickling is a very easy project," says Edie van Breems . "Just follow the instructions on the pickle label!" Sand floor. Apply white "pickle" (available at hardware stores) fairly thickly, and let seep into the grain. Apply additional coats as necessary. Wipe off excess with a soft, dry cloth. Let floor dry thoroughly. Apply satin polyurethane four or five layers in heavy traffic areas.

DETAILS

Rely on a few well-chosen accessories to round out a room. Verdigris copper garlands and an oval "ancestral portrait" echo the delicate neoclassical swags and medallions found on Gustavian-style furniture. Bold checked upholstery and subdued colors keep the mood calm, quiet, and country.

Antiques and reproductions mix easily. Look for the upcoming catalogs from Eleish-Van Breems as well as pieces from Blondell Antiques and Country Swedish.