Antique furniture styles Queen Anne

Antiques are collectible items that are valuable because of their age, rarity and beauty. English antique furniture is one of the most sought after collectibles – their degree of craftsmanship and attention to detail makes them very popular for antique collectors. Antique furniture includes dining tables, chairs, chests and bureaus most commonly made of mahogany, oak, pine, walnut and rosewood. There are a number of different styles of English antique furniture depending on the era when they were made – these include the Tudor, Elizabeth, William and Mary, Queen Anne, Georgian, Regency and Victorian periods.

 

One of the most popular periods for antique furniture was the Queen Anne period. This style of furniture developed during and around the reign of Anne, Queen of Great Britain which lasted from 1702 – 1714 and was a continuation of the William and Mary style of furniture design. In UK, the style of Queen Anne’s reign is often described as late Baroque and was smaller, lighter and more comfortable than previous styles. The most characteristic examples of Queen Anne antique furniture include curving shapes, the cabriole leg, cushioned seats and wingback chairs.

 

One of the most recognizable elements of Queen Anne antique furniture is the cabriole leg. This was influenced by the designs of Andre-Charles Boulle, a French cabinet maker and the Rococo style from Louis XV of France. Cabriole legs are designed based on the leg of an animal from the knee downwards. It has a graceful form with a knee that curves out and an ankle that curves in.

 

Queen Anne chairs are known to have their curvy lines, cabriole leg, and vasiform splats with a horseshoe shape. Other decorative elements include carved shell and scroll motifs which are often found on the chest and knees of the chairs. Wingback chairs were also one of the most popular furniture items during the Queen Anne period. They were fully upholstered with exposed wooden legs and jave sides. The shoulders of the back were drooped slightly to give a more feminine look suitable for the period.

 

Today, Queen Anne antique furniture continues to provide its owners intrinsic beauty, excellent workmanship and the elegance of true masterpieces. They are still very popular and are considered to be one of the most widely used pieces of antique furniture in many homes, adding a touch of elegance and beauty.