Victorian Furniture (Hardcover)

The first 50 years of Queen Victoria's reign saw vast numbers of pieces of furniture made in a range of styles greater than in any other period of British furniture. Furniture was made in a variety of forms using various motifs. The gothic style has enjoyed frequent periods of fashion, but never before had it been taken so seriously and with such a moralistic tone. Nostalgia for the England of the first Elizabeth resulted in another style, while classicism, so popular in the early years of the century, still had a strong influence. The emerging middle classes wanted something to show their wealth so rococo found keen adherents. Similarily, carving enjoyed a huge renewal of interest, and the new fashions for exhibitions led to some extraordinary objects being made - to be reproduced in more modest form for the mass market. This book by an ex-member of the museums service, throws new light on a surprisingly fascinating subject. New names emerge, new talents are discovered in this period of British furniture.