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(Above photo - Antique Edwardian Settee )

Edwardian furniture is often characterized by eclecticism instead of focusing on just one style or design. That's because furniture makers during the Edwardian era sought to bring back designs from previous periods while incorporating new elements. In a way, their style revolted against the more formal Victorian style, which had existed for close to 50 years.

When Queen Victoria's son Edward became king in 1901, he ushered in a fresh new furniture-making era. He reigned until 1910, a short nine years within which people sought to be freer spirited instead of the rigid, dark, and restrictive Victorian period. The English began to transform into a multi-faceted, mobile, eclectic society. That change in attitude was reflected in the types of furniture made during that period.

(Above photo - Edwardian Mahogany Sideboard - Antique Server Buffet 1900 )

Compared to the heavier, dark, overly ornate Victorian furniture, Edwardian furniture has a lighter esthetic. Furniture makers mainly used mahogany even though newer materials like bamboo and wicker were also used. Even though the chairs rarely had upholstery, those that did had paler colors and delicate floral patterns.

(Above photo - Edwardian Antiques and Interiors )

Despite its airy, delicate nature, Edwardian furniture borrowed heavily from designs in other historical eras. Therefore, you will find elements from Tudor, Georgian, neoclassical, and art nouveau designs. That's because furniture makers during the Edwardian era sought to revive popular styles from the past. Apart from revivalism, they also did reproduction combining elements from different periods or countries. That's why many people find it challenging to identify antique Edwardian furniture.

Edwardian Furniture Materials and Color

(Above photo - Pair Mahogany Bookcases Open Front Sheraton )

Edwardian furniture makers preferred to use mahogany, bamboo, and wicker, adding to the style's breezy, delicate nature. They would incorporate new elements into furniture from the empire, rococo, and baroque styles, creating something new.

The Edwardian era came soon after the Victorian period, which has favored darker colors. Therefore, it sought to redefine the color used on the furniture, making it lighter than before. The chairs mostly had feminine patterns such as flowers and other floral designs. Furniture makers preferred sheds of gray, yellow, green, lilac, and blue. As part of the interior décor, homeowners would use fresh flowers to complement the furniture's floral theme. Inside the houses, the walls were painted cream, and the furniture had green fabrics.

Designers of Edwardian Furniture

(Above photo - Antique Edwardian Desk Writing Table - Mahogany Sheraton )

Like any other era, the Edwardian period was characterized by the works of many designers. However, the standout designers of this era included Charles Rennie Mackintosh and Louis Comfort Tiffany. Rennie created beautiful furniture pieces with unconventional, striking designs that thrust him into international fame. He sought to have elongated lines of elegant, feminine forms and flower & leaf motifs. Another great designer at that time, Tiffany, is known for his lampshades and other glass objects.

Conclusion

(Above photo - Antique Edwardian Sheraton China Cabinet Bookcase )

The Edwardian era lasted between 1901 and 1910 for nine years. Within that short time, Edwardian furniture had considerably shifted from the heavily ornamented Victorian style. In addition to using lighter colors, furniture makers used newer materials like bamboo and wicker. One of the most excellent furniture designers of that era is Charles Rennie Mackintosh, whose works are available in antique shops.