Anyone who owns antique art – whether a single piece or a collection – owns a little piece of history. Antique art may be a family heirloom or it may be a piece that you were drawn to and purchased at an antique store or estate sale. Regardless of how antique art comes into your possession, its unique quality deserves special presentation. And what better place to display and enjoy it than in the intimacy of your master bedroom suite?

Framing, Hanging and Lighting Antique Art

Antique art and elaborate rococo frames are mutually flattering; choose from gilded ornate frames in gold leaf, silver or brass. Simpler frames are appropriate as well, especially if you wish for the focus to remain on the artwork or if your bedroom has modern elements. Coordinate frames and finishes throughout the room; everything doesn’t have to be identical, just complementary.

Hang the artwork at eye level and highlight it with accent lighting such as adjustable eyeball spotlights mounted in the ceiling or wall sconces that can be installed and directed from any angle. Of course you’ll want to choose lighting fixtures that complement the overall style of your bedroom.

Accenting a Contemporary Bedroom with Antique Art

Use a single large piece of antique art as a juxtaposing focal point adding unexpected diversity to an otherwise contemporary room. Center this large piece of antique art on a focal wall; for maximum effect, do not detract from it with additional smaller artworks. Sprinkle in other furnishings with antique appeal to provide a thread of continuity: For example, an antique chaise lounge, armoire or bedside tables can complement the antique art. Or add modern furniture with antique detailing, such as a mahogany dresser with intricately carved doors. Add a few other accessories, such as Art Deco figurines, Asian wall plates, or an antique vase to pull the look together. Having a common color running throughout the room in both the antique and contemporary elements will also unite the space.

Building Bedroom Decor around Antique Art

You can use your cherished piece of antique art as the inspiration for your entire room, building from the style and colors in the artwork. This approach works especially well for traditional styles such as French or English country, American Farmhouse or Primitive Country, Victorian and European Old World styles. Let the style of the artwork dictate your style choice.

• Portraits lend themselves well to English Country, French Country, and Victorian styles. Floral motifs in wall paper, curtains, bedding and accessories are accurate reflections of all these styles especially when counter pointed with other patterns, such as stripes, checks and plaids.
• Americana style will often include portraits, as well as farm scenes and landscapes. Primitive and Shaker decor is clean and less cluttered than typical country style and often relies on a combination of black and brown woods and muted colors such as mustard and sage.
• Painted ceramic art is a hallmark of European antique art and can therefore be the inspiration for French Country, English Country, Old World and Tuscan style bedrooms. Wrought iron decor and metal wall planters filled with greenery and seasonal blooms can be used to accent the artwork.

All text copyright Shanel. Photo from Flickr - "Master Bedroom, Complete With Lamps" courtesy of suavehouse113.