Relevant categories: Mirrors,Tables
(Above photo - Adams Console Table - Mahogany Demi Lune Regency Tables )
Adam's antique furniture was created in the neoclassical style existing in the late 18th century (1760 to 1792). They were made in Scotland by three brothers Robert Adam, James Adam, and William Adam. Their furniture style is known as Adam style. It improved on the neoclassical style by incorporating straight lines and curves from Roman and Greek architecture. In their designs, the Adam brothers sought to create something different from the Chippendale and Georgian styles, which were popular at that time.
Robert Adam, the brain behind the style, was introduced to classical architecture while on a tour of Italy and France. When he returned to England, Robert was appointed Architect for King George III. He designed grand buildings to showcase the wealth and success of the expanding British Empire. Together with his brothers, he designed furniture that gave character to their architectural designs. Thus, the first furniture pieces by Adam brothers were for the growing British aristocracy.
Satinwood and Mahogany
(Above photo - Pair Painted Half Round Console Tables - Adams Satinwood )
Even though reasonably simple, Adam-style furniture is beautiful. The preferred material for the furniture is satinwood and mahogany. Many different types of furniture were created in this style. Examples include large sideboards with two pedestals, lots of drawers, and a Grecian urn on each of the stands.
Gilding and Painting
(Above photo - Classic Adams interior in Syon House in London ) Some furniture pieces were gilded, though on a lower scale than the classical Chippendale style. The gilding was very close to the French style. The furniture could also be painted To create harmony with some architectural features. Where the natural wood color was required, the furniture would be stained using a clear coat.
Square Chair Seats
Adam pioneered the chair plat in the form of a lyre. Later on, other furniture makers, such as Sheraton, began to make the lyre. Some of the Adam style chairs featured griffins between the plat and the chair seat. Adam designed predominantly square chair seats with unique features such as classical figures, classical carvings, and shield-back chairs.
Motifs and Ornamentation
Adam's antique furniture pieces may include chairs, chests, clock cases, cabinets, dining room tables, settees, and so on. Each one of them is likely to have its classical motifs such as the honeysuckle, ram heads, urns, wheatears, medallions, and drapery swags. There are also some simple ornamentations, including fluting, carvings, and elaborate inlays.
Straight Legs
(Above photo - Mahogany Adams Sideboard Demi Lune Buffet Server ) Characteristically, Adam style furniture had straight legs. However, Adam didn't just stick to one straight leg style. There were reeded, round, turned, tapered, and consecutive square legs. That was a standard feature for the chairs, tables, and other furniture pieces.
Expensive Upholstery
(Above photo - Regency Adams Gilt Mantle Mirror ) The upholstery on the settees and chairs was meant for the elite, wealthy families. It was not uncommon to find brocade, damask, and satin fabrics on the chairs.
Conclusion
If you are looking for Adams antique furniture, you have come to the right place. As one of the biggest antique shops in the world, we have a variety of items for the discerning homeowner. You will find everything you need to overhaul your home décor.
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