George Hunzinger, a German cabinetmaker who came to Brooklyn, New York, in the 1850's, specialized in fantastic chairs. His favorite medium was bamboo, either simulated from other woods or the real thing. Its lumps and bumps afforded him unlimited opportunities for whimsical flights of fancy, and a chair's comfort seemed to be the least of his concerns. Back them up with Scottish tartan wallpaper and some stags' heads, and you could be taking tea with Queen Victoria at Balmoral. Antique Habit's proprietors, Jerry and Betsy Goldman of Santa Rosa, California, are always eager to share their knowledge of what to look for in a gas chandelier.
Original finish is very important, as is excellent condition and no missing components.
These factors do not coincide very often, but when they do, the price is going to be strong. In a show of this size there are dozens and dozens more dealers who must go unmentioned, though many of them have very enticing wares. The list could go on and on. Owner Marie-Luise Pal describes her wares as objects of virtu from the 18th and 19th centuries, which covers a diverse field ranging from fans, lorgnettes, snuffboxes, and vinaigrettes to posy holders, architects' instruments, etuis, and chatelaines. All the chatelaine lacked was a miniature umbrella, since by the time showgoers were ready to leave the concourse, it was raining again.