Relevant categories: Dining Tables
( Above photo - Antique Dining Table Extending Victorian Mahogany 1870 )
When buying antique dining tables, it can be difficult choosing between regency or Victorian dining sets. What are the unique features of each of these dining tables? In what ways are they similar? In this article, we present the regency vs Victorian dining tables debate in a straightforward and easy-to-understand manner. Keep reading for more:
( Above photo - Regency Extending Dining Table Mahogany Antique )
Regency dining tables emerged between 1795 and 1820, when the prince regent reigned over Great Britain following the indisposition of King George III. After the death of King George III, the prince regent became King George IV and reigned until 1837.
Like other furniture pieces during that period, regency dining tables have unique characteristics that were influenced by the prince regent himself. The dining table designs borrowed heavily from ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Roman civilizations.
Thus, regency dining tables mostly have the following unique characteristics:
Heavy and dark wood such as mahogany, zebrawood, and rosewood
Column-shaped or concave-shaped dining table legs
Metal-covered, paw-shaped legs on dining tables
Applied decorations and embellishments like lion masks and female masks
Carved rosettes or stylized flower designs and laurel wreaths
Gilded metal accents (mounts) and elaborate brass inlays
Wide or extendable tabletops, capable of accommodating many diners
( Above photo - Victorian Mahogany Dining Table Oval Extending 1900 )
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Victorian dining tables were made during the Victorian era from 1837 to 1901. Instead of one furniture styles, the dining tables are diverse, bringing out the influences that led to their production. Of course, Queen Victoria played a significant role influencing the production of these furniture pieces.
It was during the Victorian Era that Great Britain and the rest of the world industrialized by a big deal. Thus, it was easier to produce identical furniture than before. Instead of a single person, machines were used to produce multiple pieces.
Although Victorian dining tables were criticized for the lack of artisanship, they still stood out with unique characteristics like the following:
Heavy and dark woods, including mahogany, ebony, zebrawood, and rosewood
Ornate details mirroring those used in previous periods
Heavy-appearing dining tables with wide tabletops
Carvings such as scrollwork, animals, and botanicals of different types
Dining tables with turned legs and ball feet
( Above photo - Regency Pedestal Dining Table Mahogany )
There are several similarities between regency and Victorian dining tables. That is because Victorian furniture makers borrowed heavily from previous eras. Thus, many Victorian dining tables have the same features and those made during the regency period.
For example, regency and Victorian dining tables were made from heavy and dark wood such as mahogany, ebony, rosewood, and zebrawood. Both of these dining tables also had carvings of animals, rosettes, and scrollwork.
( Above photo - Extending Victorian Dining Table Mahogany 1850 )
The major difference between regency and Victorian dining tables is that the former was handmade while the latter was largely machine-made. Regency dining tables have details that are more intricate and a personal touch that comes with them. On the other hand, Victorian dining tables had less intricate details.
After the above details between the regency vs Victorian dining tables debate, which one works best for you?
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