I’ve always been drawn to old paintings, especially vintage portraits. About 10 years ago, I found an amazing pencil sketch portrait of a lady at the Allegan Antiques Market and had to have it for my new home. It’s a statement piece that inspired me and still has a prominent spot in my living room.
That was the start of my collection – which has now grown to almost 20 portraits of beautiful women from different eras. They each represent a moment in time in their lives and I like to imagine what their stories are, who they were, what they were passionate about? When I first started collecting them, I really had no idea what I would do with all of these paintings…of people I didn’t know. But I knew that having them made me happy. I decided I would dedicate a gallery wall to them in my home office and I LOVE them there. I call them ‘The Ladies’ and they make me smile every day.
What to look for?
I’m personally drawn to portraits that really embody style or a specific era, if they have a great hairstyle or they’re wearing pretty clothes. Vibrant colors also draw my attention. I stay away from anything too quirky because it doesn’t fit my personality. Really, it’s all about personal preference. The painting should speak to you in some way. Does it convey a personality that suits you or your style? Does it remind you of an important person in your life? Does it have a cool factor that appeals to you? It’s also important to think about the end use when purchasing these treasures. Whether you have a spot for it now or know how you will use it in the future, this will help avoid wasting your money.
How to decorate with them?
Portraits look great grouped by color or theme in a home. They can be displayed together like mine on a gallery wall or mixed with other art of like colors. Either will make an impact. Frames are optional, but I think mixing framed and unframed pieces helps create a more curated look.
You don’t have to have a large collection to make a statement. The great thing about vintage portraits is they have so much personality all on their own. I love seeing them pop up in unexpected spaces such as a bathroom or kitchen or styled on a bookshelf. A single portrait of a woman would also be a perfect accent for a fabulous feminine closet. And don’t forget the guys. A distinguished portrait of a gentleman would nicely define a masculine bar setting or study. No matter where displayed, they add soul to a space and are great conversation pieces.
Where to find?
Flea markets are a great source for vintage portraits because they have such a vast group of antique vendors with tons of eclectic finds they’ve accumulated over the years. You can always find a few hidden gems amongst the aisles. I find that I get the best prices for them at flea markets too.
Estate sales are another great spot for these treasures because they may be part of an estate liquidation after someone’s passing. I actually came across the largest part of my collection at an estate sale. It was the home of an artist that had sold her work professionally in the mid-century era. For some reason, the family didn’t keep any of the family portraits she painted that were hung throughout her home. I couldn’t bear to see them separated, so I bought every one of them…even the crabby looking granny. HA!
If you’re not someone that enjoys the thrill of the hunt as much as me, you can find plenty of portrait paintings on Etsy. You’ll pay a little more there because vendors aren’t as motivated to sell quickly, and you pay for shipping. But, it’s a better way to avoid impulse buying and to look for something that really fits your space.
~ Beckie
what fun, I’m also a collector of many different things, seems like I go from one thing to another depending on what catches my eye.