Edwardian

Edwardian furniture often characterised by eclecticism instead of focusing on just one style or design. That’s because furniture makers during the Edwardian era sought to bring back designs from previous periods while incorporating new elements. In a way, their style revolted against the more formal Victorian style, which had existed for close to 50 years.

When Queen Victoria’s son Edward became king in 1901, he ushered in a fresh new furniture-making era. He reigned until 1910, a short nine years within which people sought to be freer spirited instead of the rigid, dark, and restrictive Victorian period. The English began to transform into a multi-faceted, mobile, eclectic society. That change in attitude was reflected in the types of furniture made during that period.

Compared to the heavier, dark, overly ornate Victorian furniture, Edwardian furniture has a lighter esthetic. Furniture makers mainly used mahogany even though newer materials like bamboo and wicker were also used. Even though the chairs rarely had upholstery, those that did had paler colors and delicate floral patterns