History of Silhouettes

Miniature portraits were extremely expensive for the ordinary person so "Shade" portraits were a wonderful alternative. Silhouettes were originally called Profile Shades or Shadows by the English, the French coined the term La Silhouette, eventually this term stuck and carries forward to today. Antique Silhouettes may be found in 4 general forms:(1) Painted on paper, card, vellum, ivory, silk or porcelain. (2) Painted in reverse on glass. (3) Hollow cut, usually with the aid of a machine, in this process the figure is cut away from the paper, thereby leaving a negative image. (4) Cut free hand with scissors or knives than pasted to a contrasting background. The above photo is a wonderful example of a historical figure (Andrew Jackson) painted on silk.

Come peek into our front window and you will find a wonderful example of a Mission Oak three shelf trough top bookcase, circa 1920's. This bookcase is part of the Arts & Crafts movement which came to be around the turn of the century due to protest of the Victorian Era. After so many years of heavy overly decorated Victorian furniture, designers hoped to bring clean line furniture that highlighted the beauty of natural wood that would work in any home. Come shop our store and find many wonderful, beautiful pieces of oak furniture.

SPRING PLANNING TIME

Spring is here! There are so many items around the Wexford General Store to help you plan for the sunshine when it finally arrives here in Pittsburgh. We have vintage furniture, benches, chairs for your porches and decks. We have crocks, planters, plant stands and so much more to decorate your outdoor spaces.

In the photo:

Is an old Country Store seed display offered by His & Hers Antiques. The wood case folds up for the salesmans portability. It is on wheels and has over 180 seed packets.

Inventory changes everyday..............so plan to stop in and enjoy the unique shopping expereience.

You don't want to miss this special day at the store.............

Springtime Doll House

Tired of the fallen snow and looking for something fun to do? This doll house in His & Hers room is ready for creative input. Paint and stencil, make curtains and wall hangings. It is loaded with furniture just waiting to be decorated by loving hands for long lasting memories.

Valentine's Day

Are you planning to give your Sweetheart Jewelry? We have many treasures to choose from in the Shop. Please stop by and check out our jewels!

And ...

For your Valentine's Day flowers we have many pretty Vases to choose from.