Gothic Revival Furniture Characteristics
Gothic revival also referred to as victorian gothic neo gothic or gothick is an architectural movement that began in the late 1740s in england.
Gothic revival furniture characteristics. Between 1840 and 1880 gothic revival became a prominent architectural style for both modest residences and churches throughout the united states. Gothic revival architectural style that drew its inspiration from medieval architecture and competed with the neoclassical revivals in the united states and great britain. Pointed tops spiky pilasters arches and rosette motifs tended to distinguish the style even if these elements originally decorated medieval cathedrals rather than furniture.
The gothic revival 1840 1860. Its initial design period was c 1150 to 1550 but saw a revival in the 19th century by the victorians. It is one of the few styles that celebrates elements found in the corresponding architectural themes.
It often carries a religious connotation because gothic architecture is associated with church design. This is relatively easy to identify for collectors. Gothic furniture is a distinct and powerful design statement.
Gothic period design was influenced by roman and medieval architecture. The furniture of the gothic period with its characteristic contour and ornaments derived from the gothic art which originated in france at the beginning of the 12th century. Gothic design was the first true ecclesiastical style and was symbolic of the triumph pf the catholic church over paganism in europe.
It incorporated heavy woods rosewood walnut or oak in dark stains and colors and distinctive ornamentation into its design. Gothic revival furniture echoed the architecture of the cathedrals churches castles and homes of the wealthy nobles the furniture was made for. In its early stages the furniture was quite simple than it evolved.
Its momentum grew in the early 19th century when increasingly serious and learned admirers of neo gothic styles sought to revive medieval gothic architecture in contrast to the neoclassical styles prevalent at the time. Much like the castle or cathedral that inspired it a gothic revival chair makes a bold design statement. Gothic revival furniture ranges in type from expensive antiques from the 19th century to inexpensive modern reproduction pieces.