Styles in furniture - Victorian

Named after Queen Victoria of England, whose reign lasted from 1837 to 1901, the Victorian style is a British style, strongly dominated by the Queen's love of ornament, which was also reflected in the preferences of her subjects. It coincides with La Belle Epoque in France and the Gilded Age in the USA. The furniture created in this period is heavy, dark in color, with elaborate ornamentation borrowed from the styles Gothic, rococo, Renaissance or neoclassical. It was the first style to take furniture out of the factory workshop, as the industrial revolution allowed it to be made in factories. Thus made, furniture became cheaper and more accessible, despite its exclusive look.

A period marked by the changes brought about by the industrial revolution, which democratized luxury

Queen Victoria's reign was characterized by an industrial boom that led to a growing middle class, which became more prosperous and wanted to show off its new status. This desire was satisfied by the mass production of goods that until then had been made by renowned craftsmen only for the very rich. Mass production in factories made furniture cheaper and much more accessible. Although it was of very high quality, it was no longer prohibitively expensive, and those eager to show off their status by using exquisite pieces of furniture could do so.

It was during this period, in 1828 to be exact, that Samuel Pratt patented the spiral arch for use in upholstery, which led to changes in both the appearance and quality of the chairs. In order for the springs to hold the springs properly the seats had to be stiffened and the seat lowered, deepened for the springs to take hold. As a result, the seat legs became shorter. Also in this period came the low or armless armchairs, allowing ladies to seat their voluminous gowns much better.

Another means by which the new middle class was able to show its status was upholstery. Victorian furnishings were dressed in heavy brocade, damask, velvet and goblins in exquisite colors. On the backs of sofas and chairs, embossed patterns were embossed with buttons. The fabrics used were plain, brightly colored or with floral patterns reproducing the wallpaper used for the walls.

The dominant of the era was industrial production that reproduced successful models without direct contact between master and customer. Old luxury models were taken and reproduced in several variations, with improvements or the introduction of amenities. To compensate for the lack of bespoke furniture, Victorian pieces often included elaborate carvings, ornaments and ornaments.

With its rich ornamentation, round lines and mix of styles, Victorian furniture was a forerunner of Art Nouveau and Arts and Crafts.

A style that has taken much of the richness of earlier styles

Victorian furniture is a mixture of elements that characterize earlier luxurious styles favored by the aristocracy. The new middle classes appreciated rich shapes in contrast to simple lines that could not emphasize social status. The massive proportions of the Gothic style, with the dark colors of the finish, the elaborate carving and rich ornamentation, the exaggerated curves, the lavish upholstery and decorative carvings typical of the Renaissance and Rococo styles are all aspects of the Victorian style.

The influences of classical styles divided the Victorian style into several periods. In the first part, from 1930 to 1860, the dominant influences were from Gothic style. Roman and Greek influences can be seen in the design of the furniture, the main ornaments being pointed arches, towers, rosettes and shells. Influence rococo style was noted between 1840 and 1865. The furniture made during this period is elegant, graceful and light. Ornamentation is represented by delicate foliage, cherubs, flowers, fruit, shells and mules. Then came the renaissance that marked the period 1860-1890. Furniture became much larger and highly ornate. There were highly carved elements, turned or twisted legs, marble tops and sharp corners.

An interesting period was after 1853, when Japan opened its borders. Many artists were inspired by the unique and interesting Japanese style. Despite the wealth of ornamentation of the time there were also those who loved the simplicity, purity of form and strong affinity with nature in Japanese art and tried to capture the Asian spirit in their creations.

The most used species during this period were mahogany, palisander and nuculus. In the second half of the period, when the preference for opulent luxury moderated slightly, species such as oak tree and cherryThe wood was very dark stained so you could hardly tell what kind of wood it was. Walnut was usually used for smaller pieces, such as small chests of drawers or dressers, and mahogany for larger pieces such as wardrobes, dining tables and bookcases. Sometimes, to increase their value, less valuable wooden pieces were veneered with mahogany veneer and decorated with walnut or rosewood. Tables often had marble tops.

The wood was painted dark and often carved. The backs and arms of chairs and sofas were carved, as were the tops of beds and cupboards. Vines, flowers, fruit, bows and ribbons, cherubs were often used as ornaments, and to increase the value, the ornaments were sometimes gilded. Chair backs were often round and upholstered.

Despite the mix of elements, the Victorian style was a pleasing one. It was not restrictive, with designs to please everyone. It was the first style whose furniture was made in factories, becoming more affordable due to its lower price and greater choice. It was the Victorian style that started it all elegant Art Nouveau styleand the Art and Craft style, simpler and closer to nature.