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Federal Decorative Dishes and Vide-Poche

FEDERAL STYLE

Following the Revolutionary War, the American republic referenced the Roman Republic in its designs to celebrate its independence and declare itself a powerful new country. Imbued with neoclassical elements like those being promoted by architect Robert Adam in Great Britain, antique Federal-style furniture was the first distinctly American style in its melding of ancient influences, European aesthetics and national pride.

Dating roughly from 1790 to 1830, the style featured angular furniture with saber legs and smooth surfaces that contrasted with the curvy Rococo style that was previously in fashion. Eagles were common ornamental motifs on Federal-period furniture, as were cornucopia, lyres, garlands and scrolls, adding subtle flair to pieces characterized by clean lines, geometric symmetry, balanced shapes and a sense of grandeur.

Instead of sculptural carvings, authentic Federal-style furniture was adorned with inlays and patterned veneers that showcased the rich character of different grains and types of wood. As social life tended to be informal in the young country, furniture was often lightweight, so it could be easily rearranged in a drawing room or bedroom. Pieces like dining tables with drop leaves and sideboards became popular, replacing larger chests of drawers.

The Federal style varied by region: Artisans in Charleston, South Carolina, decorated chairs with carved backs, for instance, while those in Baltimore, Maryland, preferred painted details. Its major proponents included father-and-son cabinetmakers John and Thomas Seymour in Boston, Duncan Phyfe and Charles-Honoré Lannuier in New York and Samuel McIntire in Salem, Massachusetts.

Find antique Federal tables, mirrors, storage cabinets and other Federal furniture for sale on 1stDibs.

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Style: Federal
Antique John Targee 19th Century American Coin Silver Salver Marked IT
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine early American signed salver. In coin silver. Marked I.T. Attributed to John Targee of New York. In the form of a large thick-gauged plate with a beaded rim supported by 3...
Category

20th Century American Federal Decorative Dishes and Vide-Poche

Materials

Silver

Antique John Targee 19th Century American Coin Silver Salver Marked IT
Antique John Targee 19th Century American Coin Silver Salver Marked IT

Antique John Targee 19th Century American Coin Silver Salver Marked IT

19th Century Mortar & Pestle with Original Surface
Located in New York, NY
American, late 18th century/early 19th century wooden mortar and pestle. The urn shaped mortar with rich patina has a wonderful ...
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1790s Antique Federal Decorative Dishes and Vide-Poche

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19th Century Mortar & Pestle with Original Surface
19th Century Mortar & Pestle with Original Surface

19th Century Mortar & Pestle with Original Surface

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Federal decorative dishes and vide-poche for sale on 1stDibs.

Find a broad range of unique Federal decorative dishes and vide-poche for sale on 1stDibs. Many of these items were first offered in the 18th Century and Earlier, but contemporary artisans have continued to produce works inspired by this style. If you’re looking to add vintage decorative dishes and vide-poche created in this style to your space, the works available on 1stDibs include decorative objects and other home furnishings, frequently crafted with cherry, hardwood and other materials. It’s true that these talented designers have at times inspired knockoffs, but our experienced specialists have partnered with only top vetted sellers to offer authentic pieces that come with a buyer protection guarantee. Prices for decorative dishes and vide-poche differ depending upon multiple factors, including designer, materials, construction methods, condition and provenance. On 1stDibs, the price for these items starts at $1,450 and tops out at $1,450 while the average work can sell for $1,450.

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