Furniture Design Transition from Jacobean to William and Mary

History of Old English Furniture

• The history of Old English furniture spans various periods, each with unique characteristics.
• Different styles emerged and evolved throughout time, reflecting changes in taste, technology, and social norms.
• The presentation showcased notable styles, including Chippendale, William and Mary, Queen Anne, and others.

Thomas Chippendale Style

• This style flourished from 1718 to 1779 AD.
• The Chippendale's family practiced furniture design and production.
• Thomas the Father specialized in moving between English counties gathering information to renovate furniture and interior design.
• Thomas the Son built upon his family's legacy, reaching peak production through external trips.

Historical Background

• The 18th century saw multiple evolving design patterns, high creativity, and innovation in furniture-making.
• The innovative designers connected furniture production with social activities.
• This period combined diverse influences, notably the Renaissance.

Boomers of this Model

• English furniture styles and patterns continued evolving and were influenced by other European nations' styles.
• Queen Anne Style served as an initial foundation for new styles.
• The Chippendale family expanded their production to establish a recognizable artistic influence.
• The style was influenced by earlier styles like Louis XIV and Louis XV and Gothic design.

Furniture Designs

• Chippendale furniture features curved and straight legs, influenced by French art.
• Tables and safes/cupboards frequently have column-like bronze finishes.
• The letter 'C' is a recurring design element in many Chippendale pieces.
• Designs incorporate Chinese geometric patterns and Gothic shapes.
• The Rococo style is also part of Chippendale furniture design.

NB: Rococo Style

• Characterized by an abundance of imaginative designs.
• Patterns include plant formations and intertwined exotic animals/birds.

Wood Used

• Mahogany was a popular wood choice.
• Walnut wood was also used, though not for certain designs.
• The choice of wood often reflected specific style guidelines.

Other Styles

• George Hepplewhite (1786-1790) furniture style was shown. Key features are noted.
• Thomas Sheraton (1751-1806) style was also showcased. Key characteristics are identified.

William and Mary Style

• This style dates from 1689 to 1702.
• Queen Mary II ruled from 1689 to 1694.
• She held a Protestant upbringing and married William of Orange in 1677.
• England was ruled jointly by Mary II and William of Orange until 1688.

Historical Background

• English art was impacted by Dutch tastes.
• The reign of James II was removed in 1688.
• The English Renaissance was also present at the time.
• European Renaissance spread across Europe, including Italy, Spain, and France, among others.
• The arts of different countries were influenced by each other, due to cultural exchange.

Effects of Prosperity

• The English people began welcoming diverse foreign thoughts, which spread among different parts of English society.
• English kings hired foreign artisans and craftsmen, resulting in stylistic influence across different fields.
• The influence of Renaissance arts also influenced English artistic expression.

Queen Anne Style

• This style flourished from 1702-1714.
• Queen Anne was the second daughter of King James II.
• She married Prince George of Denmark in 1677.

Historical Background

• English kings exerted efforts to improve the quality and richness of their homes.
• The trend set by the Kings influenced the general public.
• The desire for renewal in lifestyle and home furnishing played a significant role.
• Introduction of new colors in lifestyle inspired new designs in furniture.
• Influences from other European countries and cultural exchange contributed to the innovation in art styles.

Effects of Prosperity

• Presence of foreign artists (Dutch) contributed their skill to English art.
• Overseas artists' impact on England expanded its artistic scope and knowledge.
• French artists enriched the artistic scene during the English period.

Furniture Designs (William and Mary and Queen Anne Styles)

• Furniture designs exhibited flowing lines and elegance.
• Upholstered seating components were a common feature.
• Chairs often had curved backs and stylish legs.
• Cabinet designs showed elegance and sophistication.

Wood Used

• Wood varieties like walnut were popular.
• Usage of veneers from other nations was also common.
• Use of lacquers from Asian countries also influenced this period.

Queen Anne Style - Furniture Designs

• Widespread use of veneers and marquetry.
• Chairs are frequently well-seating.
• Designs blend comfort and elegance.
• The use of curved and straight lines within the designs is observed.

Other information

• Additional details on styles are given in the presentation, regarding their evolution through time.
• Tables, beds, and other common furniture designs are also highlighted.
• Used materials and decorations are detailed.

Explore the significant design transitions from Jacobean to William and Mary styles. This quiz highlights key characteristics and cultural shifts in furniture design while examining the influence of artists fleeing France to England. Test your knowledge on the evolution of design and the impact of these historical movements.