After the Antique

The term ‘after the antique’ refers to a type of collecting that became popular during the 18th Century in Rome and Italy. During this time, wealthy Europeans would embark on a ‘Grand Tour’, visiting the cities of Italy and purchasing antiques, sculpture, art, and other ‘after the antique’ items to take home with them. These collectors were particularly interested in items that were inspired by ancient Roman art and culture. As such, the phrase ‘after the antique’ is used to describe items that were created in the 18th and 19th Centuries that were based on the art and culture of Ancient Rome and Greece.

The tradition of the Grand Tour was popular among wealthy Europeans, particularly in the 18th and 19th centuries. The tour typically involved visiting the major cities of Italy, as well as other cultural centers in Europe, with the goal of experiencing the art, architecture, and culture of these places. Many travelers on the Grand Tour also purchased art, antiques, sculpture, works of art like micro mosaics and other items to bring back home with them. This practice helped to spread knowledge of classical art and culture throughout Europe.

The Grand Tourists were often collectors who were particularly interested in items inspired by ancient Roman art and culture. They would often seek out classical antiquities, such as sculptures, vases, and other artifacts, as well as works of art and architecture that were influenced by classical styles. This interest in classical antiquity was part of a broader movement known as neoclassicism, which was popular in Europe during the 18th and 19th centuries.

The phrase “after the antique” was commonly used to describe items that were created in the 18th and 19th centuries and were based on the art and culture of ancient Rome. These items were often copies or imitations of classical antiquities, such as sculptures, vases, and other artifacts, or were inspired by classical styles. The use of the phrase “after the antique” was a way of acknowledging the influence of classical art and culture on these works, while also distinguishing them from genuine antiquities.