American Furniture – Victorian (1840 – 1910)

As in Europe, the Victorian period in America saw an eclectic mix of revivals of past styles, including French, Gothic, Renaissance and Classical styles. No one style lasted throughout the Victorian period but several were in vogue at any given time. Often different styles were used for different rooms in one house; for example, a Gothic hall, Renaissance bedroom, Louis XIV drawing room and so on.

Increasing industrialisation allowed the beginnings of mass production to meet the needs of a rapidly increasing population. Painted and stencilled  Hitchcock chairs This, however, also brought with it fierce competition and a lowering of standards of craftsmanship. By the end of the 19th century, as elsewhere, there was a reaction against mass production which led to the Arts and Crafts movement.