Developing Style
Furniture styles evolved gradually at this time. Pieces from the early years are often referred to as 'Transitional' because that contained elements of both Rococo and Neoclassical designs. As time went on, the Neoclassical elements became more pronounced.
In the 20 years or so before the French Revolution in 1789, English taste began to influence the French, and this trend can be seen in fitted and non fitted furniture designs. Mahogany was now used frequently, particularly when trade with America increased at the end of the Revolutionary War, and the wood could be easily imported from the West Indies.
Decoration
Different styles of marquetry developed as a method of decoration. Pictorial designs became more prominent than the loosely arranged floral decorations of previous eras. Landscapes and architectural compositions were very popular, as were vases or baskets of flowers. Parquetry, a geometric form of marquetry, was another common decorative feature.
Later in Louis XVI's reign, Riesener became one of the most important cabinet-makers. Around 1780, he abandoned marquetry and started to produce much plainer furniture that relied on well-figured veneers for its decorative effect. Only truly French aspect of furniture design of this period was the use of delicately detailed porcelain plaques from the sevres factory, which were set into pieces of furniture, now antique furniture, as a decorative feature. Mounts were often elaborate and of very fine quality, particularly those made by foundries such as Gouthiere and Thomire.
Boullework was still favoured, as was furniture that incorporated pieces of painted and foiled glass known as verre eglomise, or Chinese or Japanese lacquer panels, often reused from late 17th - or early 18th century pieces. Painted furniture was also very popular.
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