
James Andrew at Clinton Howell - photo Justin Williams
I recently visited Clinton Howell Antiques to view their truly spectacular collection of fine English furniture.
Clinton Howell’s passion is contagious – our latest exchange had him professing his love for a table’s “gorgeous legs” — and yes, he is aware that this sounds like something out of a teen magazine! But it is this sort of passion, he conveys, that is truly at the heart of things. Of course, as one would expect, his unabashed enthusiasm belies an extraordinarily vast technical knowledge and connoisseurship first honed in London at furniture college and later through buying and selling furniture there. Have a look at his blog — We found ourselves completely and happily lost in it.
We’ve selected just a few of the pieces that caught our eye recently (below) – whether your setting is high style traditional, transitional, or even modernist – viewed as individual works of art, I’m sure you’ll agree that these sublime pieces would elevate any fine interior.

A pair of painted and parcel gilt open arm chairs 1790 - Clinton Howell Antiques

A gilded settee in the manner of Robert Adam 1770 - Clinton Howell Antiques

pair of marquetry inlaid demi-lune consoles in the manner of John Linnell 1775 - Clinton Howell Antiques
There has been some talk about antiques and English furniture being out of fashion, but Howell counters quite brilliantly I think, noting, “… fashion is fickle, it has no allegiance to what is beautiful. It is easier to stick to what is beautiful and let others worry about what is in and what is out.”
I, for one, will follow Howell’s sage advice and opt for beauty!
At Clinton Howell (top) admiring a superb pair of marquetry inlaid demi-lune consoles in the manner of John Linnell 1775, a pair of large oval George II mirrors 1780, and a very finely carved gilt wood arm chair in the manner of John Linnell 1770. I’m sporting a red leather biker jacket, brown tweed biker pants and a python belt with a silver buckle all by Gucci, Turnbull and Asser shocking pink cotton shirt with contrast white collar and french cuffs, vintage moon stone cuff links, brown satin tie by Ralph Lauren, large silk paisley scarf by Etro and aubergine suede “Eton” boots by Yves Saint Laurent – my fragrance is Creed Vintage Tabarome.
Good to talk earlier James after so long. That’s a great jacket your wearing there, suits your complexion.
By the way this is my moms website.
http://www.Go-to-France.co.uk
the inlaid marquetry is absolutely gorgeous!
Luv the Etro, James! perfect with your leather~
xo*
the scarf and the shirt – everything – so sharp!
Brilliant photo. Could we have a preview of your closet and fabulous clothes collection, please, James?
Hello John,
My apartment is being shot Jan 4th 2011 for the New York Social Diary.
Perhaps there will be some good closet photos.
Cheers
James
love the mirrors, you look great as always!
kisses,
Jane
Qué lindos objetos y muebles! me encantan, me gustaría alguna de esas sillitas para el living!
cariños,
María
was für wundervolle Sachen! Ich muss unbedingt zu Clinton Howell antiques!
LG
Dagmar
Your website is ALWAYS amazing and inspiring. It’s a guilty pleasure of mine!
Me encanta! qué lindos objetos, amo las antiguedades especialmente si son de tan buena calidad!
besos
Lola
Wie schön mein Lieber! Ich brauche ein Paar von diesen Stühlen! Hab eine schöne Woche
LG
Christiane