English Baroque Furniture and Furnishings

Introduction

• English Baroque primarily during the reign of William and Mary.
• Begins under King Charles II (Caroline period).

Furniture Styles and Evolution

Chairs

• Charles II Chair: Caned chair with ornate pierced work.
• Subtle Style Changes:
  • Curved crest rail on top, resembling a crown.
  • Quieter turning, more of a balustrade style rather than barley twist.
  • Shaped and curved feet replacing straight turned feet.
  • Curved elements indicate Baroque style.
  • William and Mary Style: Exaggerated turnings and rounded elements.

Queen Anne Transition

• Shift in chair shape with cabriole legs and padded feet.
• Sculptural hoop back with pierced splat.
• Furniture Forms: Introduction of chaise and settee/sofa based on French canapé.

Beds and Interior Design

• Daniel Merot: Designs influenced furniture and interiors, published for wider influence.
• Upholstered beds with architectural upholstery, e.g., Sir Melville's bed.
• Porcelain rooms for displaying porcelain collections.

Marquetry and Veneering

• Influences: Dutch and French influences on English marquetry.
• Types of Marquetry:
  • Tulip and abstract floral patterns.
  • Seaweed marquetry with vine-like patterns.
• Veneering Techniques:
  • Oyster veneering using cross-cut branch slices.

Specific Furniture Pieces

• Chests:
  • Chest on Chest: Marquetry influence from Dutch style.
  • Chest on Stand: Teardrop handles typical of William and Mary.
• Japanning:
  • European attempt to replicate Asian lacquer work.
  • William and Mary pieces with Japaning finish.

Cultural and Economic Context

• England growing economically and politically in Europe.
• Blending European, Asian, and colonial influences into a distinct English style.

Conclusion

• The English synthesis of diverse influences led to a distinct style in Baroque furniture and interior design.