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.