Antique Italian, French, and Scandinavian Furniture
In only a few decades, the Baroque style (approx. 1643-1715) was replaced by the curved lines and embellishments of the Rococo period (Circa 1723 - 1774). Beginning in the 19th century, approx. 1800 – 1820, Rococo was replaced by the straight lines of the Neoclassical style. Since the Baroque era, France had been the cultural center of Europe and the French trends were usually replicated in Europe and their colonies. Therefore, the European furniture of the 18th century is closely related to the French styles. The start of the French Revolution transformed this nation and gradually influenced arts and design to change once more. England developed its own fashion, and their furniture was very different. The Country French or Provincial does not really have a specific period, it is defined as a “life style”. Much of the period furniture such as Louis XV, Louis XVI, Regency, Directoire and Louis Philippe, stood as examples and influenced the French country furnitures' relaxed, yet elegant style and finish. The 19th century was a turmoiled time for France. Liberty and freedom movements led to violence, and powerful new leaders led to world revolutions, challenging France as an empire. Technological changes signaled a massive rearranging of European social structures. All of this change was subtly reflected in furniture of that period.
