Antique Furniture Periods
Georgian: 1714 – 1820
Mahogany was the main wood used during this period with an increase use of tropical woods towards the latter of the period but mainly replaced the use of walnut. The Georgian reign saw through the Palladian style followed by the Rococo, which led into English Neoclassicism. Neoclassicism replaced the curves and flounces of the Rococo style with straight lines and order with use of Inlay, Veneering, Carving and Marquetry. Hepplewhite, Chippendale, Sheraton & Adams were the most influential designers of this time.
Regency: 1800 – 1820
Regency furniture shows a plain, slender, elegance, which avoids shapes and curved surfaces. Gothic furniture underwent another revival during this era, as did the Chinese and Chinoiserie styles. Strictly speaking this period was from 1811 to 1820 under the reign of Prince Regent. William IV reigned from 1830 until his death in 1837. Mahogany although still the most popular wood used the introduction of exotic woods, veneers, brass work became commonplace.
Victorian: 1837 – 1901
The Victorian era saw the introduction of more functional serious furniture with the desires of the consumer now considered. It saw manufactures derive furniture ideas from earlier periods in history. This period also gave rise to the introduction of the industrial age and the rise to the Arts & Crafts movement (1890 – 1910). Mahogany and Rosewood were the principal woods used during this period.
Edwardian: 1901 – 1910
The Edwardian period saw a return to an elegance of furniture design with woods and styles brightening up. Most designs were not original but more of a copy on previous eras.