Though its peak popularity was during the late 19th century in America, Victorian furniture still holds quite an appeal for many people today. This style of furniture is distinguishable by the time period in which it was created and the methods that were used. The name is given to furniture made during Queen Victoria’s reign from 1836 to 1901, though that time period actually gave way to different styles of furniture that all fell under the umbrella of “Victorian.”

Early Victorian furniture pieces were done in the Rococo style, which copied this period in France. This style is recognizable by the many intricate carvings in the wood. Extensive scrollwork, flowers and animals decorated the furniture—sometimes every inch of it. Scroll feet were very popular in these Rococo revival pieces, as were cabriole legs, which were legs shaped almost like an ‘S.’ Rococo pieces were ornate in a way not commonly seen in American furniture, but these pieces became very popular in American homes.

The newly created mechanical tools that allowed these ornate scrolls and carvings were responsible for much of the intricacy of early Victorian furniture, as was craftsmen’s new ability to used laminated wood. During lamination, one-inch thick stripes of rosewood were glued together to make wood that was 6 to 18 layers thick. Solid wood wasn’t the best medium for detailed engravings and carvings, but the lamination procedure lent itself well to the rococo style.

This Victorian furniture also marked the first time furniture was sold in America in sets, with matching pieces, and the first time furniture was mass produced. Though rococo style is probably the most recognizable style of furniture from this era, gothic style was popular too, with its more medieval look. Most gothic revival Victorian pieces were produced from about 1840 to 1865. Renaissance revival style reigned from about 1860 to 1875, with highly polished and parquet patterned furniture, often featuring brass findings and ornaments to give it a distinctive style.

Victorian furniture was popular in every room of the home, from the bedroom to the dining room, and still enjoys popularity today with antique lovers and interior decorators. Antique pieces can range in price from the reasonable to the expensive, depending on the rarity of the style and the condition of the furniture. If you find an antique piece for sale, be sure to ask whether or not is has been refinished or reupholstered as you’ll want to purchase furniture as close to its original condition as possible to make a good investment.

If it’s the beauty of Victorian furniture you’re after more than the value, then these things matter less. You might even want to look into reproductions. Either way, be sure that the joints are sturdy and the item is in overall decent condition. A refinished and reupholstered piece of this furniture can look gorgeous in your home, so if you don’t mind doing that yourself or having it done, a piece in less than perfect condition might be a great purchase for you.

Originally posted 2008-12-06 14:00:32. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Antiques -> Furniture -> Chairs

In the market for a collectible that will not only be useful but also beautify your home? Antique chairs are the perfect solution. These are a very popular type of collectible and no matter what type of furniture you’re interested in, chances are you’ll be able to find just the right chair to complete your collection. Here are some great ideas to get you started.

If you enjoy rocking, there are many antique chairs that offer this feature. In fact, these are probably some of the most collectible chairs you can find. Often made with cane backs, or slats, these chairs used to adorn parlors and cabins alike during the past few hundred years. If you have never sat in one of these antique chairs, you are missing out on an experience. For those that enjoy primitive, western or Americana collectibles, this type of antique chair would fit perfectly with any collection.

For those that prefer a more modern twist, there are antique chairs from the Danish Modern movement that are quickly coming back into style. In fact, you can find brand new replicas of this style in just about any store today. These chairs are incredibly comfortable, even though they have that sleek modern look and if you can find an original, you’ll be surprised at what they can do for a room when it comes to finishing touches.

If you’re looking for an antique chair for your den, office or study, consider getting a leather club chair from the art deco period. These are the epitome of luxury and many are still fully functional today. Ideally, look for a club chair that still has its original ottoman, since these are worth quite a bit more money, especially at auction. Club chairs are typically leather and will usually come in black or dark brown.

Queen Anne and Chippendale antique chairs are always popular, especially if your home already features this kind of décor. While these may not be the most comfortable chairs on the planet, they are among the prettiest and many of them are actually incredibly valuable. Look for chairs that have their original upholstery if at all possible, or if you’re looking for a deal, you can find a run down one that just needs a little TLC.

Last but not least, there are antique chairs from the Shaker style that are ideal for any home. These are quite valuable and many will be rockers. If you’ve got a dining room you’re trying to furnish, consider using Shaker style antique chairs for a great authentic look. These chairs are very durable and it is typical to find them in fantastic condition at local auctions.

No matter what kind of antique chairs you are interested in, from oriental, to art deco and everything in between, thanks to their popularity, they are incredibly easy to find. Start shopping for an antique chair now and see just how much it can add to your home, making it very special indeed.

Photo Credits: flo21

Originally posted 2008-09-20 05:00:41. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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