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1850-1914
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| Furniture from the second half of
the 19th century up to the period of time of the First World War was not
as innovative from a technical standpoint as that from the first half of
the 19th century. There was essentially a rebellion against innovations
in furniture construction and a desire to return to simplicity in design
and construction. Art Nouveau furniture presented new ideas at a time
when factory production on a large scale was eminent. This furniture
style developed new designs which were not derivatives of historical
styles. Popularity of this style peaked around 1900. Arts and Crafts
furniture emphasized simple, utilitarian design; a reduction of
excessive decoration; use of traditional materials; and the employment
of "honest" craftsmanship. The Arts and Crafts movement rejected the
industrialization of furniture manufacture. Arts and Crafts furniture
was very popular in the United States. Mission furniture was inspired by
the Arts and Crafts movement and designed by American furniture
designer, Gustav Stickley. Another important American designer of
furniture and architect of this time period was Frank Lloyd Wright.
Wright's furniture designs reflected his ideas in architecture and often
designed furniture specifically for the buildings of his design. |
Cabinet designed by Hector Guimard in 1900. The design
is of Japanese influenced Art Nouveau. (Musee des Arts Decoratifs,
Paris) |
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Oak settle designed by Gustav Stickley and made in New
York in about 1908. Furniture designers of this type drew criticism as
lacking imagination. (Art Institute of Chicago) |
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1914-1942
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Art Deco furniture began before the
First World War as a reaction against Art Nouveau. Art Deco furniture is
characterized by limited use of ornament, simple shapes, emphasis of
fine craftsmanship and use of precious and exotic materials. Genuine Art
Deco furniture was very expensive and afforded only by the wealthy.
Following the Wall Street crash of 1929 the International style was
developed in efforts to help make furniture more affordable.
International style was influenced by the importance of utility,
industrial process, and materials. Once the effects of the depression
had eased, American Moderne furniture gained popularity in the United
States. It was characterized by sleek, shiney surfaces, bold shapes with
curving elements contrasting with straight lines and the look of
polished metal. |
| Above: Art Deco commode in shagreen and ebony designed
by Paul Iribe (Musee des Arts Decoratifs, Paris) Right: Sette by
Jean-Michel Frank in 1936 inspired by a portrait of Mae West. (Royal
Pavilion, Art Gallery & Museums, Brighton) |
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1942-Present
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| The furniture industry
was effected drastically in Europe by World War II. Utility furniture
was introduced in Britain due to material shortages during the war. It
was generally made of oak or mahogany and well built. The American
furniture industry was effected little, if any by the war. American
designs were inspired by the latest technology and materials. In
addition to metal and plywood, fiberglass and plastics were being used
in furniture. Furniture of the 50's and 60's were pure statements of
form and technology. Scandinavian and Italian designed furniture was
also popular and known for its quality. Pop Art furniture was a trend in
the 60's which used oddity, amusement and satire which reflected the
social and political upheaval of the time.
While some furniture types have lasted only a few
decades, others have reoccurred throughout history. Hopefully, this
brief virtual history of furniture may help guide your decision in your
future purchase of new or antique furniture or possibly even inspire
your next project of your own design. |
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Sacco or bean bag chair, Italy, 1968. Made of synthetic
leather filled with polystyrene beads. |
Accent Furniture
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