Styles in furniture - Baroque

Baroque is the style of grand forms and rich decoration. The first signs of the style appear in the late 16th century and last until the mid-18th century. The name comes from the Portuguese word 'barroco', meaning natural, rough, imperfect pearl. The origins of the style can be traced back to late 16th-century Italy, where it emerged and was supported by the Catholic Church, and then spread throughout Europe. This is the period when the Catholic Church encouraged the development of this luxurious style as a reaction against Protestantism.

Style with intricate decorations, carvings and gold leaf

Baroque is characterized by intricate and elaborate decorations, sometimes exaggerated, in the form of flowers, leaves, nymphs, cherubs, angels, caryatids, shepherds. The pieces of furniture are handcrafted from top-quality oak or walnut. The original finish was transparent to show the structure and design of the wood. Over time, the wood was covered with gold leaf or painted gold or bronze.

Sofas and chair cushions are covered with very high quality materials - leather, velvet or upholstery. The legs of chairs, tables, consoles and other pieces of furniture are curved, sometimes with lion paws at the ends. Large, grandiose carvings and mirrors with gilded wooden frames appear around the furniture.

At the same time, monograms and heraldic signs appear on furniture to show membership of the upper echelons of society.

It is the style found in palaces and castles. The palace of Versailles under the French king Louis XIV is a classic example of Baroque, present in architecture, landscaping and art as well as furniture.

Modern Baroque

Although it was specific to the 17th century, we find some of the elements of the Baroque style in modern furniture. Modern Baroque has rounded shapes, is richly decorated, and the colors used are metallic, mainly gold, silver and bronze. Often jewelry or semi-precious stones are used as hardware.

It is one of the classic styles that can be found in many places, just like the Chippendale and Biedermeier.

I hope you find the information interesting. As always, additions are welcome. And if you have any questions or queries, please leave them below in the dedicated space. I will be sure to reply.