GEORGIAN ERA (1790-1831)

The Georgian era is the period prior to the Victorian Era that includes the early part of the nineteenth century. In this era  plants and animal themes were popular. This style enjoyed a revival around the beginning of the twentieth century.

 

VICTORIAN ERA (1837-1901)

The term Victorian properly refers to the period of time during the reign of Queen Victoria of England. However, it is often used to generically describe the1900's and the early part of the twentieth century. As a whole, is characterized by a romanticism in all areas of the arts. Visual arts, music and literature all showed a strong concern filled with emotion. Victorian designs are typically highly ornamental. Floral and other natural designs were extremely prevalent. Rooms often mixed several complimentary prints in wallpapers and fabrics, but his became less common toward the end of the era. Pastel colors were used, however, they were often somewhat less saturated than those used in later periods.

 

ART NOUVEAU (1895-1905)

The Art Nouveau style found its way into the design of many household items; notably, furniture, lamps, clocks, jewelry, wallpaper and carpeting. This style made profound use of stylized natural forms. Elegantly curving vines and floral motifs were common. Women with long, flowing hair and dresses were often to be found in Art Nouveau style pieces such as paintings, sculpture and clocks. Classical themes were quite popular as they were throughout much of the Nineteenth Century.

 

EDWARDIAN ERA (1901-1915)

The death of Queen Victoria, notably, marked the end of the Victorian Era. The designs of that period, however, continued to be always popular. Lace and filigree were favorites in the Edwardian period.

 

ARTS & CRAFTS ERA (1905-1935)

Notable in this style were designers and architects such as William Morris, Gustav Stickley and Frank Lloyd Wright. The style emphasized simple, functional designs with straight lines and angular forms. It also favored hand-made products over machine-made.

 

ART DECO ERA (1920-1935)

The Art Deco movement frequently characterized by the use of long sharp lines and bright colors. Similar to the Arts and Crafts movement which was happening at the same time, much of the Art Deco style was very angular.