C. MARIANI "COLLEZIONE" ANTIQUE REPRODUCTION FURNITURE INTRODUCES TUSCAN BENCH, SOFA TABLE, CONSOLE, ACCESSORIES, LANTERN, SIDE TABLE, AND NEW ANTIQUE EDUCATIONAL BLOG "THE BUZZ ON ANTIQUES"

C. Mariani Antiques, Restoration & Custom has announced the expansion of its "Collezione" line of Tuscan antique reproduction furniture and the launch of its educational blog on antiques: The Buzz on Antiques at buzzonantiques.blogspot.com.

The new furniture in the Mariani Collezione line will be available immediately and include the "Carano" Tuscan style bench, "Nicolo" console and sofa table, "Moderno" upholstered wing chair, "Rondo" side table, "Arriga" trumeau mirror, "Tavolo" carved bowl, "Terra" armillary accessory, and "Viviani" rustic iron lantern. The entire Collezione line can be seen at www.cmarianiantiques.com/catalog.php?key=La+Collezione+Reproduction+Line. These new introductions bring Mariani's wholesale line of furnishings to 43 pieces. The line is exclusively available to designers through Shears & Window, San Francisco, 101 Henry Adams Street, Suite 256, San Francisco, CA 94103, Tel 415 621 0911, Fax 415 621 1357, or email at info@shearsandwindow.com.

Claudio Mariani, owner and founder of C. Mariani Antiques, Restoration & Custom says: "Some people think it's an odd time to be expanding our Collezione line given the challenges of the economy. But since we entered this market in May of last year, we have seen a steady increase in our sales volume. I believe that people are always looking for exquisite pieces to add to their home and what we do is provide hand crafted finishes and superior construction at prices that represent real value. This formula works for us in both good and bad economic times."

"Most of our pieces, like our Carano bench, are based on original antiques and antiques continue to be a primary business of mine. In fact, after 25 years in the antiques trade, we are now one of the largest wholesalers of first quality period pieces in the country. That's the reason we've decided to launch our educational website on antiques that we call "The Buzz on Antiques" at buzzonantiques.blogspot.com. The site is written by our Executive Director and recognized antique expert, Buzz Kaplan—and hence the name 'The Buzz on Antiques'. Buzz provides his expert insight into the periods and styles of antiques as well as the terminology we use."

"Buzz provides a fun twist on antiques and takes the mystery out of shopping for fine antiques. His blog reflects the many lectures he's given to museums, the design trade, and collectors over the years."