About Us

French Accents is an international company based specifically in the United States, Italy, and France. We work directly with European sources who have many years of experience acquiring distinctive antiques and accessories. We take personal pride in our ability to quickly respond to and satisfy requests for exceptional and singularly unique pieces; thus, saving you and your clients hours of painstaking work searching for a desired item. In addition to the antiques we are able to locate through our international network, we maintain a diverse collection of European treasures in our inventory and offer worldwide shipping.

Our knowledge, expertise, and direct access to acquiring European antiques provides designers, decorators, architects, contractors, and collectors with a broad range of stylish and tasteful European pieces. Discover antiques that illuminate a tour de force of periods and styles from the fanciful and exquisite classical spirit of Louis XVI to the symmetrical precision of Napoleon's French Empire; or from the exuberant, lavish carving of the Italian baroque to the rich, fine inlaid woods of a 19th century Austrian Biedermeier.

Tips for Antique Shopping

1. Antiques are, by definition, at least 100 years old. Anything else is “vintage” or a “collectible”.

2. Move the piece away from walls and other items so you can get a good look at all sides, including the bottom. Study the piece under bright light or ask to take it outside if the weather is not inclement.

3. Examine the finish for natural signs of wear. Authentic pieces will have dirt in crevices or in places that are hard to clean, and wear around knobs and on drawers caused by friction. The absence of such wear may indicate that the piece is not old, or that it has been refinished. The latter is not necessarily bad if it’s been done well, but it will lower the piece’s value in most instances.

4. Negotiate. An all-in-good-fun, see-what-you-can-do-for-me attitude gets you a lot further with dealers than a negative, attacking stance.