Period Styles (part 1 of 6)

Developments in furniture design have always been subject to various factors - economic and political change, technological advances, status, necessity and fashion. Not all Countries have experienced exactly the same influences, nor are the features of any one style seen in all the antique furniture, or furniture made at that particular time.

However, each period style does have its own defining characteristics, whether it is the overall shape of a piece, how it is decorated, or the materials used, which make it easier to identify as belonging to one era rather than another.

Renaissance

Originating in Italy in the 14th Century and then finding expression throughout Europe over the next 200 years, Renaissance means 'rebirth'. The style was inspired by a renewed interest in ancient Greece and Rome. Taking their lead from architects, fitted furniture-makers applied classical features, such as columns, cornices, and pediments to their work. This produced symmetrical - architectural pieces. popular motifs included vases, putti, and caryatids.

Baroque

An expression of wealth and power, the Baroque style was sculptural and theatrical. Drawing on classical and renaissance motifs, designers produced elaborately carved non reproduction furniture on a grand, architectural scale, using exotic materials and techniques, such as marquetry, pietra dura, and velvet upholstery.
Evident in it's purest form in Rome around 1600, the style was adopted by other European Countries as the century progressed - with varying degrees of exuberance.

Tomorrow we take a look at the second part of Period Styles.