Introduction To Fine Furniture Styles

September 25, 2010 BY Carrocel Interiors | Leave a response

As my second blog post, I thought a good way to kick things off would be a short introduction of the various furniture styles that are out there.  There are several different styles - some modern, some classic, and some that never go out of style.  Whether you are interested in heavy carvings, light carvings, curves, cabriolet feet, or just plain and clean lines, there is a style out there for you.  So, let's begin! Chippendale - Named after the English cabinetmaker, Thomas Chippendale, this style is characterized by the use of flowing lines, carvings in the form of C-scrolls, floral motifs, fret work and acanthus leaves.  The carved cabriole leg ending in the ball & claw foot is another unmistakable ...

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Furniture Styles Continued

September 20, 2010 BY Carrocel Interiors | Leave a response

Federal Style This design originated in America during the Federal age after the Revolution in the 18th century. The most important development was the sideboard while the dressing table and high chest disappeared. Duncan Phyfe was one of the most famous cabinet makers during this age. He used rich mahogany from Cuba and combined it with precision-cut veneered panels of satinwood and rosewood. Bellflower, geometric, and eagle shield inlays, decorative motifs and hardware were popularize during his age. For what it's worth, it's my favourite style of furniture! Here are some examples:     [caption id="attachment_174" align="alignleft" width="244"] Antique Mahogany and Satinwood Federal Style Sideboard[/caption] Empire Style Like a lot of other styles, this 19th century design drew upon neoclassical views of Rome, ...

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Furniture Styles Continued

September 14, 2010 BY Carrocel Interiors | Leave a response

Louis XVI This style dawned the age of neoclassicism and was modeled an on idealistic view of ancient Rome. Despite the use of elaborate inlays and ormolu mounts the basic shape is rigid and square, unlike the rococo or Louis XV which flows all over the place. The cabriole leg disappears and is replace by a more straight leg. Apart from brass mounts and classical carving, the surface is flat and decorations takes the form of geometrical marquetry. French Provincial This style draws plenty of inspiration from the patterns of Louis XV. As is often the case with country furniture, designs were simplified and nonessentials removed so that the end result is often more appealing to modern taste than the original elaborate source. The armoire ...

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