Baroque

Taking root in Rome and then spreading throughout Europe between 1600 and 1750, the Baroque style aimed to inspire and rouse the emotions through dramatic and flamboyant design. English designers derived their design concepts from books of ornament, and the style was further developed by Dutch and French cabinetmakers with special skills in marquetry (veneers of different-colored woods set into an object’s surface). Expressing the ornate and theatrical character of the style, interiors were laden with rich velvet and damask textiles and gilt-wood and marquetry furniture. The furnishings were marked by a profusion of plant life such as scrolling foliage and floral garlands and ‘Putti’ (chubby infant boys). The decorative use of monograms, usually people’s initials, and heraldic crests were also incorporated into designs as symbols of ownership and status. Specific features of the luxurious textiles used to enrich Baroque interiors were transformed into motifs that made their way into other media. The most common of these is the lambrequin, or tasseled cloth form.

Room above courtesy of Designer fuse I.D.

By Donna Sapolin

VIEW EXAMPLES OF BAROQUE PRODUCTS ON DECORATI

Baroque Style Products on Decorati
Chair by Raymond Goins	Stool by Farrago Design	Vanity by Nella Vatrina	Mirror by The Rothschild Collection
Baroque by Chella Textiles	Credenza by Quadrus Studio	Sconce by Remains Lighting	Secretary Desk by Avolli

.

Room above courtesy of Designer fuse I.D.

Behind the Style- by Gloria Bernard

It’s difficult to imagine that Baroque style could follow the Renaissance Period, an age of enlightenment that was expressed in science, art and architecture. The style was established in Italy, however, northern Europe and England also developed the Baroque as we know it today. It was an elaborate and dramatic display of both excess and splendor.

Two aspects of society at that time initiated the beginning of Baroque.  The Protestant movement was threatening the Catholic Church.  The monarchies were being threatened by citizen discontent, for example the French uprising against the Court of Louis IV.

Both the Church and the State needed to make a strong statement of wealth and power. The baroque was slated to do both.

In Art, it was expressed by the sense of movement, energy and light.  In furniture, it was expressed in ornate carvings, gilding, drama, and grand scale.   During the High Baroque Period in Italy, the style culminated in heavily carved gold images, usually its only function being to overwhelm the viewer.

French Baroque is distinguished by the use of marquetry and gold covered bronze ormolu, creating the most elegant of styles.  To create movement, French craftsman used a combination of woods in one furniture piece, often using Marble as accents.

The English reinterpreted the baroque to reflect their lifestyle.  The grand scale was brought to more human levels by the use of lower ceilings and wood paneling in their rooms.  Whereas Oak was used prior to this period, the English began using Walnut, not only for its beauty, but for its excellent carving qualities. Thus the reason they used only one wood rather than a combination.  To give the furniture a lighter appearance, caned seats were used instead of heavy upholstery.  This style can be seen in many fine William & Mary pieces that exist today.

Room above courtesy of Designer Lee Indrieri.