Category Archives: Furniture Styles

The Development of Furniture Styles over Time

Furniture styles have come and gone since the beginning of modern civilization. Archeologists have determined that humans who lived as early as 3,000 B.C. were furniture crafters, and although discovering pieces that existed so long ago are rare, items have been uncovered in ancient tombs as well as during archeological digs.

At one point, thousands of years ago, furniture was extremely basic. It was invented more for convenience rather than for style and decoration. However, over time, when the development of furniture advanced and individuals who owned furniture, such as the ancient Egyptians and Greeks, began to add artistic elements to their pieces, specific design styles began to emerge.

The evolution of furniture styles is interesting and full of historical significance. After reading descriptions of specific antique furniture styles, it becomes obviously apparent just how influential immigration, economic factors, politics, artistic movements, and countless other environmental factors had on the development of furniture over time.

William and Mary Style Furniture

William and Mary style furniture was inspired by the reign of William III and Mary II, who ruled England, Ireland, and Scotland from 1689 to 1702. William was from Holland, which explains the decidedly Dutch influence of William and Mary furniture. This interpretation of Baroque style was also influenced by French and oriental pieces. Like ...
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Early American Style Furniture

History Early American furniture was produced from around 1640 to about 1700. This style is remarkably similar to Jacobean furniture, which was produced in England around the same time. It’s not surprising that the colonists, who had just immigrated to America from England, would feel most comfortable copying the familiar. Despite the heavy ...
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Jacobean Furniture

History The Jacobean period encompassed most of the 1600s, beginning with the coronation of King James in 1603 and ending when King James II fled from England in 1688. Prior to this era, furniture was simple and functional. Seating was limited to plain stools and benches, and mattresses were often laid directly on the floor. […]
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Modern Furniture Styles

Modern style furniture offers important benefits to the refinisher. It’s easy to find, often for free. Even when you do have to purchase it, you’ll pay much less than you would for an antique piece of comparable quality. And once you have it, you can do what you want with it- no worrying that you’ll […]
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