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An Introduction to Antique Furniture
Furniture has been a domestic necessity in all civilisations,
ancient, modern (and in-between) and has been produced in large
quantities over the centuries.
The basic requirements and categories are few. We all need something
to sleep on, chairs to sit on, tables and storage devices but it is
the diversity within these sub-categories that is enormous.
Chairs and furniture for sitting extends from the very simplest
wooden stools, settles and chairs to deeply upholstered sofas and
settees. A wide variety of different tables can be used for dining
or other domestic usage, working, recreation purposes or just for
decoration.
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Storage Furniture covers a multitude of varieties and uses from
chests-of drawers , wardrobes, display cabinets and bookcases.
Writing furniture includes bureaux, secretaires and desks.
When we come to think of it the wide variety of furniture is never
more visible when we think of the wide variety of construction
techniques used, the shape and decoration, these last categories
more affected by a region or country of origin, the maker and period
of manufacture.
Much of the collectability of
antique furniture comes from these
very differences, but nevertheless just as important (lest we
forget) are the aesthetic qualities of the timber that is used in
the manufacture.
Whether this is hardwood, softwood, solid or veneered, stained and
polished wooden furniture. If the furniture is well cared for it
will increase in both desirability and value.Furniture: The Basics
Over the Centuries, furniture has developed from simple designs
cut from one basic section of a tree or bush, with joints held
together by wooden pegs, to skilfully constructed and designed
pieces made using increasingly more skilful and masterful
techniques.
From the 17th Century onwards, many items of furniture became
smaller and lighter; seating became more upholstered for comfort. s
wood turning skills developed and advanced, heavy, plain styles gave
way to elegant designs with intricate carving and veneering. In the
late 17th Century gilding and lacquering were introduced and the use
of more exotic timbers and hardwoods began to increase with their
import from worldwide
In this section of Absolutely Ancient we plan to cover a wide
variety of subject areas to do with Antique Furniture starting with
the basics in construction, styles and variety of woods, patination
and decoration.
We will then look at the major areas of furniture namely, Chairs,
Tables and storage furniture and finally writing furniture. |