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Soll's Antiques: Where Stained Glass Reigns
"A good little niche," is how Candi Soll describes the family business, which specializes in residential antique stained (leaded) glass. Located in a spacious former general store and barn on Route 2 in Canaan, the shop sparkles brilliantly with its impressive display of over 150 windows and doors. Originally from the Boston area, Candi and her husband Allan moved to Canaan in the 1970s and started acquiring antiques. By the 1980s, they were specializing in antique leaded glass. Today they are recognized experts in the field and have the nation's largest collection. "We always liked architectural items," Candi says. Along with the stained glass, Soll's also sells furniture, French and bifold doors, newell posts, andirons, and mantels.
"Stained glass is a focal point," Candi says in describing why customers purchase these beautiful jeweled and beveled windows and doors. Some are hung as room dividers, privacy screens, or decorative pieces to block windows or enhance blank walls, while others are installed to be used as they were originally intended. The glass, Candi explains, all dates to the turn of the last century, 1890 to 1910 or 1920 and was the work of artists who cut each piece separately in their studios and created a special mix of colors. At that time stained glass transoms for townhouses were very popular. "We like the jeweled ones," Candi says, pointing out that they look different in different lighting. Although the stained glass with the jewels is the best seller, the clear, leaded beveled glass tends to throw some dazzling prisms. The shop is open by appointment — call 474-5396 — or chance. Since Candi and Allan live upstairs, customers can just ring the bell. For more pictures of antique stained glass windows and additional information, go to the store's web site. | ||
