FOCUS ON Swedish Antiques

Inspired by Odette's love of Swedish antiques, Caroline Rees shares a potted history of the country's beloved design aesthetic

- Caroline Rees

The Mora clock, with its round face atop a potbellied body, is probably the most iconic piece of Swedish antique furniture. Made from the 1700s onwards, as part of a cottage industry, they rarely function as reliable timepieces, but they make a statement in a room and prices for originals are around £1,500-£3,000.

The late 18th century signalled the arrival of the much-loved Gustavian style, which has seen several revivals since and was a refinement of the Baroque and Rococo styles of the previous 100 years. Evolving during the reign of Gustav III, it was heavily influenced by French neoclassicism.