Step into the past at Gaslight Antiques

Those with a thirst for art and history will be in heaven at Gaslight Antiques, a sprawling collection of antiqued fine furniture, art and specialty items spanning 15,000 sq feet across 3 galleries. In its 33 years of existence, Gaslight has been recognized by the local and national antique scene for the high quality of its wares and impressive selection.

“It’s [Antiques] a part of history that will never be anymore” said David Schutt, who co-owns Gaslight Antiques with his wife, Vikki.

A native to Toledo, Ohio, David Schutt grew up appreciating the work of the highly skilled immigrant craftsmen that came to work in that area.  David said because of this, it’s no accident that everything made in this country from that time came from the Midwest region of the country. Until retiring a few years ago, he taught biology at Plant High School and worked in exceptional student education in Hillsborough County for 38 years. Vikki Schutt was born in Paris, to a master cabinet maker who taught David much of what he knows about the art of handmade furniture.

The Schitts opened the main gallery of the shop in 1978, which houses a general collection of American Victorian wood carved furniture, cabinets, sofas, antique lighting, and home accessories. The Office furniture Gallery opened two years later, containing antiqued desk, chairs, file cabinets, and bookcases.  The Gregorian Gallery holds ornate furniture of quality cherry wood, rosewood, and mahogany, and oil paintings from 17^th and 18^th century European estates, many items in this gallery once belonged to European royalty or were used to furnish castles.  

In  addition to  elegant settee and stately vanities, the galleries are filled with highly-sought after specialty items, ranging from collectable sports memorabilia and civil war relics to oddity pieces, such as old world globes, apothecary cabinets and outdated medical textbooks.

Antiques, which are generally accepted as being at least 100 years old, make a great investment, says David Schutt. Until mass production flourished in the early 20^th, most furniture and home accessories were handmade. The quality and durability of the craftsmanship of from this era ensures that their value will hold or increase with time.

“You had the human touch, the craftsmanship” said David Schutt.

Gaslight Antiques have outfitted several local businesses and restaurants in the bay area. Gaslight also does work in private residents, Vikki often works with home decorators and interior designers to help facilitate of a whole room, said David.

When it comes to buying and owning antiques, David Schutt has several words of advice. Knowing the antique dealer is important, as well as having adequate knowledge of different styles and woods. Antique furniture is notably resilient, but storage in an environment that is either too dry or too damp, such as a garage, can cause wood furniture to crack. A dry, air-conditioned room will ensure that a piece will last to be enjoyed for many years.

Gaslight Antiques is located at 3616 Henderson Blvd. it is  open 10:30 am-4 pm, Mon.-Sat.