This original set of sophisticated double doors that exude the grandeur and architectural taste of the early 20th century are from the St. Regis Hotel in New York and were...
This original set of sophisticated double doors that exude the grandeur and architectural taste of the early 20th century are from the St. Regis Hotel in New York and were crafted around 1904, reflecting the luxury and attention to detail befitting such an establishment.
Each door panel is encased in a dark wooden frame, mahogany or walnut, with a deep, lustrous sheen that speaks to the quality of the materials and care in maintenance. The wood's dark tones set a dramatic backdrop for the intricate metalwork that adorns the doors, showcasing the Art Nouveau style's affinity for natural forms and elegant lines.
The metal decorations are made of wrought iron, with possible brass accents, given their lighter, golden hue. Art Nouveau's influence is evident in the curvilinear and organic forms of the ironwork, which evoke the stems and leaves of a stylized plant. The central motif within each door's upper section is an elliptical frame embellished with sweeping curves that link to an ornamental top piece. This feature bears the hallmarks of an elongated flower or bud, with symmetrically placed leaves or petals that spread outward in an inviting display of craftsmanship.
At the pinnacle of each door, a circular detail hangs like a solitary fruit or moon, connecting to the rest of the design with delicate, vine-like extensions. This circle is a focal point, drawing the eye upward and balancing the composition.
Below this central arrangement, the metalwork continues with a more geometric pattern that provides a visual anchor for the design. It consists of a stylized vase or urn from which bold, arching lines emerge, suggesting a controlled wildness that is both organic and artistic. These lines mirror the door's shape, reinforcing the overall design's verticality and elegance.
The lower portion of each door is marked by a rectangular inset panel, bordered by a thin, subtly colored outline that might be a strip of metal, adding a further touch of refinement. The panel is understated, providing a visual rest from the ornate metalwork above and grounding the doors with solidity.
The light blue color visible through the ironwork is a solid glass backing panel, offering a gentle contrast to the dark wood and metal and giving the doors a sense of depth and dimension. The blue hue contributes to a serene and majestic entrance, inviting patrons into the luxurious world of the St. Regis Hotel.
These doors are a testament to the era's aesthetic values and skilled artisanship, encapsulating the luxury and sophistication that the St. Regis Hotel aimed to convey to its guests at the turn of the century.