Relevant categories: Dressers and Sideboards,Bookcases
( Above photo - Georgian Breakfront Bookcase Mahogany Revival 1880 )
Period Georgian antiques were created between 1714 and 1837. Therefore, they lasted until Queen Victoria ascended to the throne. Given the vast period within which it lasted, Georgian antiques represent many styles, moving from the era of one king to another. In it, you’ll find antique made in the Rococo, Chippendale, Regency, and Neoclassic styles.
During the Georgian period, there were different influences that led to the creation memorable antiques that people still cherish today. Thus, it not surprising that people refer to the Georgian era and furniture design’s golden age.
Several designers made period Georgian antiques. They include Thomas Chippendale, Thomas Sheraton, Hepplewhite, and the Robert brothers. The valuable antiques they were able to produce still attract buyers today. These master craftsmen wouldn’t have made an impact if they had not embraced the spirit of excellence.
( Above photo - Georgian Wine Table Antique Mahogany Side Tables )
There are many things that define period Georgian furniture. First, the Georgian era introduced the use of exotic woods such as mahogany in furniture making. Designers preferred mahogany because of its distinctive dark brown look.
Furniture makers took time to create proportional furniture, which were refined to scale. In the early Georgian years, the furniture had more of the Queen Anne style, which had ended in 1714. They were heavier, richer, and featured more lavish upholstery. There were scallop shells on chair and table legs and brass castors in the feet.
Later on, English furniture makers borrowed heavily from the Louis XV and Rococo styles. As merchants went and returned from the Far East, they brought back Chinese influences into the furniture industry. Still other furniture pieces featured Gothic and Louis XVI elements.
( Above photo - Antique Mahogany Sideboard Server Georgian 1880 )
The Georgian era is named after the kings who reigned over England at that time. All the Kings, except one, were called George. Towards the end of the Georgian era, William IV assumed the English throne in 1830 and reigned until 1837.
Kings George I, George II, George III, and George IV reigned until 1830. That period includes the time when the Prince Regent reigned over England in place of his indisposed father, King George III. The Prince Regent later became King George IV. Therefore, Regency furniture falls squarely within the Georgian era.
( Above photo - Antique Display Cabinet - Georgian Mahogany Specimen 1880 )
One of the defining characteristics of period Georgian furniture is the use of hand finishing, mixed materials, square-headed nails, and dovetail joints. Despite being hand-crafted, Georgian furniture exhibit high-qualify finishes and top-notch craftsmanship. So, look for that!
Early Georgian furniture were heavier, imitating elements of the Queen Anne period. With time, Italian Palladian design made its way into the furniture industry in Britain. Baroque and Late Baroque (Rococo) styles also featured in Georgian furniture.
Other influences include Gothic, Chinoiserie, and Neoclassism. While Chippendale preferred Rococo, Gothic, and Chinoiserie elements, the Adam brothers used neoclassical elements. Lighter and classy Regency furniture also embraced neoclassic elements.
Are you looking to purchase antiques from the Georgian period? The features of the specific antiques may vary depending on when they were made and the influences behind them.
Georgian Sideboard Mahogany Bo...
Georgian Waterfall Bookcase Ma...
Georgian Secretaire Bookcase D...
Georgian Breakfront Bookcase M...
Convex Regency eagle mirrors are highly decorative items that can transform any space within your home. The mirrors are mounted on gilt wood frames that render them beautiful to the core. They may have eagle features on their frames.
In 1925, the Exposition Internationale Des Arts Decoratifs et Industriels Modern was held in Paris bringing to the fore the Art Deco style, which had been simmering under the rudder since 1908. It was an international exhibition that brought together artists, architects, and furniture makers from across the world.