Stair Galleries is proud to present this impressive and unique collection of Americana, assembled over a forty-year period by two passionate individuals who have thoughtfully selected each object to represent their vision of the American design ethic.  A number of the items were purchased here at Stair Galleries, where the collectors have been loyal clients since the inception of the auction house.  Others were acquired from private collections, dealers and auction houses throughout the United States.

Twelve years ago, the owners purchased a 19th-century barn in upstate New York and converted it into a comfortable living space and studio.  They filled it with their already vast assortment of furniture, folk art and Americana.  The components of this ever-expanding collection harmonized beautifully, producing an environment in which it makes sense to see a Hudson River Valley kas sharing a room with a portrait of an American ship’s captain, English needlework pictures, delft blue and white chargers, pewter flagons and crewelwork-covered stools.

Their decision to sell this unique collection was prompted by the purchase of a 19th-century architectural gem, a Federal-period house standing along the Hudson River.  The new residence dictates an entirely different design approach.

The collectors have spent most of their professional lives in the theater and entertainment industries, but it is their talent for creating elegant and tasteful interiors that is showcased here.  The objects not only fill a space, but complement each other and contribute to the overall scheme, giving each room in the house a distinct character and ambience.  Whether striving to find the perfect object for one of their design projects or hunting for yet another item to enhance their personal collection, these seasoned collectors always demonstrate a keen ability to pinpoint antiques with just the right visual quality or harmonious balance of sophisticated design and quality craftsmanship. 

The homes owned by the collectors have been featured in a number of interior decorating periodicals, including Colonial Homes, Country Living and House Beautiful.  One house was included in the book Classic American Decorating.

We have endeavored to recreate in our gallery the ambience of the collector’s home. We wish you could have joined us as we cataloged the property on site, as a visit to the house is the only way to truly experience the charming and comfortable setting of this lovingly assembled collection.

We hope that your purchases here will become a part of your own family history.