Victorian

Written by Donna Sapolin

During the Victorian Age (1837-1901), which derives its name from Queen Victoria and her reign, design ideas were plucked from the past. A vast mix of styles coalesced to form the Victorian style; influences included 
Roccoco, Baroque, Neoclassical and Gothic. This was the first mass-produced style. 

Interior décor was elaborate and homes were filled with mirrors and ornately carved mahogany, rosewood and iron furniture with heavy proportions. Lamps were often made of brass, and completed with etched glass shades. 

Dark colors prevailed, especially reds and greens. Living rooms and parlors were quite formal and held upholstered sofas (the Chesterfield was prominent), settees with undulating seatbacks, chaise longues, ottomans and balloon back chairs. Heavy velvet, silk or damask draperies bore beaded accents and tassel tiebacks while delicate lace curtains screened windows-modesty was a guiding design principle for the prim and proper Victorians. Coiled springs were developed for use in upholstery at this time, causing seats to become deeper and legs shorter.

Formal dining rooms held large tables surrounded by straight-backed chairs. 

The Victorians were collectors and so showcased their books and cherished possessions in majestic mahogany display cabinets. Bedrooms contained heavy carved beds in dark woods such as mahogany and rosewood, imposing wooden chest and armoires. Elegant dressing tables were also common as Victorian ladies spent time powdering and primping.

Photo above courtesy of Designers Vernon Applegate and Gioi Tran of Decorati Partner Applegate Tran .

VIEW EXAMPLES OF VICTORIAN PRODUCTS ON DECORATI

Victorian Style Products on Decorati
Sofa from Solvang Antique Center	Mirror by Antiquarian Traders	Table by Costantini Designs	Sofa by John Widdicomb

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EXAMPLES OF ROOMS THAT ARE INSPIRED BY VICTORIAN STYLE:.

Photo above courtesy of Designer Anne Wait.

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Photos above courtesy of Decorati Partner Zoffany.

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Photos above courtesy of Decorati Partners Fadini Borghi & Colombo USA Inc.

OTHER ONLINE RESOURCES:

Victoriana Study Center

Antique Victorian Furniture Diversity

History of Victorian Furniture

BLOGS:

Rare Victorian

Antique Victorian Furniture Blog

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