James Andrew - Liz O'Brian at the Winter Antiques Show. photo by Justin Williams
The Liz O’Brien gallery is one of my NYC favorites. There you’ll find a truly stunning selection of pieces by legendary designers and design houses of the 20th Century like Maison Jansen, Tony Duquette, Albert Hadley, and Francis Elkins to name a few. I’d be thrilled to own most any of the many pieces I find on display at her super chic gallery; O’Brien is indeed an invaluable resource for many avid collectors as well as designers like myself who have come to rely on her expertise and exquisite taste. As you have probably surmised, I share her passion for the iconic masters of the 20th century, and love the excitement, spark, and historical interest they can add to a fine interior.
I was of course thrilled to visit with O”Brien while she was exhibiting at the very prestigious Winter Antiques Show, and it isn’t surprising that she had one of the most attractive displays at the show! O’Brien decorated her booth with a sophisticated Syrie Maugham wallpaper named Tree of Life (now produced by Studio Printworks) in gray, which created a gorgeous backdrop to the many rather magnificent pieces she brought with her.
I’m particularly wild about the settee made by Maison Jansen for Lady Louis Mountbatten’s bedroom in Brook House, London, and I’m also quite taken by a pair of Italian Blackamoor tables, and the most beautiful chandelier by Baguès—together, these would make a perfect foundation for the most absolutely ravishing room!
Maison Jansen scalloped-back settee—provenance, Mountbatten Residence.
Blackamoor tables. Italian, c. 1920.
Baguès nine-light chandelier in bronze with rock crystal pendants.
Taking a few moments with Liz O’Brien, I’m sporting a red leather motor cycle jacket by Gucci , red and white striped cotton shirt with contrast white collar and cuffs by Turnbull and Asser, wool tartan tie by Ralph Lauren, Seaman Schepps grey pearl cuff links, Alexander McQueen herringbone wool tweed cargo style pants, black leather wingtip tasseled loafers and black patent and silver leather belt with grommets both by Gucci, my fragrance is Creed Windsor. Photos by Justin Williams.