Antique Furniture
Glossary F-Z
FEDERAL FURNITURE-
This American furniture style is
from 1780, following the Revolution, to 1830. It began by echoing the
neoclassical styles of such English masters as Adam, Hepplewhite and
Sheraton. It later took on influences from France. Duncan Phyfe is
among its most notable craftsmen. Federal style furniture is refined and
rectilinear, often with veneering and inlay. Brass feet and casters and
brass-ring drawer and door pulls are common.
GEORGIAN FURNITURE-
Refers to furniture
styles that evolved during the long reign of England's three Georges, I,
II, and III, from 1714 to 1795. Popular motifs were eagles' heads and
claws, leaves, satyrs' masks, and lions' heads and claws.
VICTORIAN FURNITURE-
This style was named
for England's Queen Victoria, who reigned from 1837 to 1901. This style
applied to English and American furniture of that time, particularly in
the mid-years of her reign. That furniture elaborates on Rococo and Louis
XV style, with exaggerated curves and size, lush upholstery, spools, and
carvings. A characteristic is horsehair cushioning.
MISSION STYLE FURNITURE-
The Mission style grew out
of England’s late 19th Century Arts & Crafts movement, most closely
identified with philosopher/ designer William Morris (whose wallpaper and
fabric designs remain popular and in production). Morris and his
allies believed England’s Industrial Revolution was undermining not only
traditional craftsmanship, but the quality of everyday life. They struck
out against cheap materials, shoddy workmanship and the excessive
ornamentation of late Victorian furniture.
QUEEN ANNE FURNITURE-
This style of furniture arose
in England during the reign of Queen Anne, from 1702 to 1714, in a break
from French influences. Walnut veneering was popular, and gentle, subtle
curves added grace. This period marked the development of secretaries and
china cupboards with serpentine arms, and soft, rounded frames and shapes.
Antique Furniture Glossary
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