Furniture from the 19th century saw significant changes driven by various historical, social, and cultural influences. It was a time of transition, with many distinct furniture styles emerging over the century. The furniture of this period ranged from neoclassical to romantic, and eventually to industrial and modern styles.
Early 19th Century (1800–1830s)
During the early part of the 19th century, the dominant styles were heavily influenced by the Neoclassical and Regency periods, which drew inspiration from ancient Greece and Rome.
Empire Style (circa 1800–1830)
Characteristics: This style was popular during the reign of Napoleon Bonaparte in France and was characterized by bold, formal lines and ornate decorations inspired by classical antiquity.
Furniture Features: Dark woods like mahogany, gilded bronze, and strong, geometric designs. Common items included large, imposing sofas, chairs, and tables with classical motifs such as eagles, lions, and wreaths.
Materials: Rich, dark woods, gold leaf, marble, and gilt accents.
Regency Style (1810–1830)
Characteristics: This British style was influenced by the neoclassical movement, with a focus on elegance and refinement.
Furniture Features: Straight lines, refined details, and light colors. Items often had delicate, curved legs and intricate inlay work.
Materials: Exotic woods like rosewood and satinwood, along with luxurious fabrics like velvet.
Mid 19th Century (1830s–1860s)
This period saw a rise in more ornate and eclectic styles, influenced by the Industrial Revolution and the growing middle class.
Victorian Style (1837–1901)
Characteristics: Named after Queen Victoria, this style covered a wide range of designs but was generally characterized by heavy, dark, and highly decorative furniture.
Furniture Features: Elaborate carvings, intricate upholstery, and a mix of influences, such as Gothic Revival, Rococo Revival, and Italianate. Furniture was often large and ornate, with features like tufted upholstery and inlaid woodwork.
Materials: Dark woods like mahogany and oak, plush fabrics, and heavy use of velvet, damask, and leather.
Gothic Revival (1830s–1860s)
Characteristics: Inspired by medieval Gothic architecture, this style emphasized pointed arches, intricate carvings, and a sense of grandeur.
Furniture Features: Arched back chairs, heavy use of wood, and decorative elements such as spires and stained glass motifs.
Materials: Dark oak and walnut, with intricate carvings and leather upholstery.
Late 19th Century (1870s–1900s)
The late 19th century was marked by more eclectic and diverse approaches as the Arts and Crafts movement began to influence furniture design, alongside the emergence of new technologies.
Aesthetic Movement (1870s–1900)
Characteristics: Focused on the integration of art into everyday life, rejecting the over-decoration of earlier Victorian styles.
Furniture Features: Simple forms, light woods, and an emphasis on craftsmanship and hand-made design. Designs often featured floral patterns, and pieces were more restrained compared to earlier Victorian styles.
Materials: Lighter woods, such as oak and walnut, with a focus on detailed craftsmanship.
Arts and Crafts Movement (1880s–1910s)
Characteristics: A reaction against industrialization, it emphasized handmade quality, simple lines, and functionality.
Furniture Features: Sturdy, simple designs, with natural, hand-worked wood and a focus on craftsmanship. Pieces were often boxy, with clear lines and modest ornamentation.
Materials: Oak and other local hardwoods, often with copper and brass fittings.
Queen Anne and Chippendale Revival
Characteristics: Inspired by 18th-century designs, these styles returned in the latter part of the 19th century, especially in America.
Furniture Features: Elegant proportions, cabriole legs, and refined carvings.
Materials: Mahogany, cherry, and walnut.
