Best of Boston

1996 Best Antiques, Affordable

Upstairs Downstairs

It has the air of a country roadside antiques store, with friendly prices and unexpected treasures (a satin-wood inlaid floor-length dressing mirror, with marble-topped side tables, 1927, $1,650). If you want to go totally rustic, consider a painted jelly cabinet from New Hampshire (33″x57,” $325), or if solid, functional stuff is more in line with the decor, how about a Sheraton chest in mahogany and pine, with turned columns ($895), or a bowback Windsor chair for $145? A year ago, we found four lovely caned chairs a la Napoleon, for $240. Take your time, look carefully, and you’re bound to find something you love and need—and can afford.

93 Charlest Street, Boston, 617-367-1950,