Antique Mother’s Day Gifts

Truly unique and individual gifts are hard to come by so if you are seeking a more original and characterful gift this Mother’s Day, why not consider an antique Mother’s Day gift that is something truly special for mum.

Wallrocks buyer Jess Wallrock explains: “One of the most rewarding aspects of giving antiques as gifts is sharing the stories of their provenance and discovering their often fascinating histories. It is so much more exciting to receive a gift that has a story, that is of wonderful quality and that you can talk about. It is somehow more precious and meaningful than something mass-produced off the shelf.”

From unusual small tables, to beautiful antique vases, dressing table items, kitchenware, and lights Jess shares her antique mother’s day gifts picks for the more discerning gift-givers amongst us.

For the Bedroom

For ladies that love luxury, you can’t go past some of these pieces. A wonderful way to treat mum, look no further than a beautiful bed coronet or pair of lamps

For the living room or hallway

“A decorative antique vase offers a clever twist on the traditional Mother’s Day bouquet,” Jess says. “We have some stunning examples from the 19th and early-to-mid 20th century in our showroom, including several ‘cloisonne’ pieces – this refers to the ancient technique of decorating metalwork, typically using enamel.”


“Vases featuring floral and oriental motifs look fabulous in both eclectic and traditionally styled rooms, either as standalone gallery pieces or when arranged alongside other interesting objects on an occasional or coffee table. Some stoneware and ceramics, such as this 1950s vase made by the famous Japanese brand Otagiri, are also highly sought-after and collectable.”

For the dressing room

“Perfume is another classic, if somewhat predictable, Mother’s Day gift. For a more creative and long-lasting alternative, this charming late 19th century English silver and cut crystal perfume bottle would add a touch of old-fashioned glamour and sophistication to any dressing table. For an even more individual gift, fill it with her favourite signature scent.”

“An elegant and beautifully-made jewellery box that will stand the test of time is another superb antique mother’s day gift idea. This inlaid jewellery box from 19th Century France features a gilded and tooled leather top, centred by a marquetry panel of a forest scene in purple-heart, elm and other exotic timber.

For the study

“For the woman who loves to retreat to her favourite reading nook, this pair of fabulous early 20th Century bookends are the perfect gift. Hand-carved from marble in an art deco style, they would suit a more contemporary and eclectic style of home.

“If the person you’re buying for has more extravagant tastes, opt for items featuring ormolu such as this 19th Century Regency antique clock, pretty French ormolu and alabaster letter holder or 19th Century French candelabra.”

For the kitchen

Collection 19th Century Glazed French Cruche Antique Pottery

“This charming collection of 19th Century French yellow-glazed cruche pottery would look fabulous in a farmhouse style kitchen. Also known as gargoluettes or pitchers, these antique jars would have been used at one time to fetch and carry water or wine. Nowadays they look fantastic as decoration on a table, dresser or bookcase.”

“Tea-lovers will be delighted by this charming 19th Century antique caddy. Made from exotic and expensive coromandel wood (a now extinct variety of ebony) this beautiful piece also features a pair of lidded storage compartments underneath the dome top. The perfect antique mother’s day gifts!

For further information and pricing, please contact Wallrocks on (07) 3862 2253 or email us.