The work of German cabinetmaker Jean Henri Riesener exemplifies the transition between the Baroque and Neoclassical styles. Notable for his exquisite use of Baroque-style decorative elements in the context of more rigorously geometric pieces, Riesener made a name for himself at the court of Louis XVI. Indeed, he was said to be Marie Antoinette’s preferred furniture maker.
Continue readingFrench Rococo Furniture is recognizable for its immense opulence. There is nothing quite as lavishly decorative and whimsically ornate as furniture from that historic period. In order to understand the design tastes of the era, we turn to media. Some of our favorite TV shows and movies offer a remarkable look into furniture tastes of different eras. Even in exuberant modern television spectaculars, grains of historical truth can bring to life the lifestyle of a…
Continue readingTiger oak furniture is a 19th-century favorite. Featuring visible lines in their veneer, pieces of tiger oak relate to the regal predator only in that regard.
Continue readingFrench Empire furniture is characterised by its visual power. Coinciding with Napoleon’s conquests of Europe, it brings a slice of his empire into every room it adorns.
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