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Federal More Furniture and Collectibles

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
Pair of Chabby Chic White Painted Three Drawers Nightstands Lamp Tables
Located in Rockaway, NJ
Pair of distressed vintage weathered look nightstands. Brass pulls.  
Category

Mid-20th Century American Federal More Furniture and Collectibles

Materials

Mahogany

19th Century French First Officer’s Uniform Red Epaulettes
Located in Godshill, Isle of Wight
19th Century French First Officer’s Uniform Red Epaulettes Good pair of French Officers Epaulettes made in Red Silk and lined in black velvet, the f...
Category

Late 19th Century Antique Federal More Furniture and Collectibles

Materials

Wool

19th Century Leather Covered Box with a Domed Lid, Brass Handle and Hinges
Located in Van Nuys, CA
This small box for personal possessions (perhaps papers or letters), is covered in black leather and decorated with borders of brass tacks, including the letters A.T. on its lid, and...
Category

Early 19th Century American Antique Federal More Furniture and Collectibles

Materials

Brass

Rare Child's Camphor Wood Chest, Leather Bound and Brass Embellished
Located in Essex, MA
Early 19th century child's camphor wood chest --Original black leather binding and brass tacks.
Category

19th Century Chinese Antique Federal More Furniture and Collectibles

Materials

Brass

PAIR of Federal Style Mahogany CABINETS, c. early 1900's
Located in Weehawken, NJ
Pair of Early 20th Century Federal Style Mahogany Cabinets. Each stand has five dovetailed drawers with glass flower shaped knobs. These would be perfect as nightstands, lingerie ca...
Category

1910s Vintage Federal More Furniture and Collectibles

Materials

Mahogany

Federal more furniture and collectibles for sale on 1stDibs.

Find a broad range of unique Federal more furniture and collectibles for sale on 1stDibs. Many of these items were first offered in the 21st Century and Contemporary, but contemporary artisans have continued to produce works inspired by this style. If you’re looking to add vintage more furniture and collectibles created in this style to your space, the works available on 1stDibs include more furniture and collectibles, case pieces and storage cabinets, tables and other home furnishings, frequently crafted with wood, mahogany and other materials. If you’re shopping for used Federal more furniture and collectibles made in a specific country, there are North America, United States, and Asia pieces for sale on 1stDibs. While there are many designers and brands associated with original more furniture and collectibles, popular names associated with this style include L. & J.G. Stickley Inc., Beacon Hill, Virginia Metalcrafters, and Baker Furniture Company. 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 more furniture and collectibles differ depending upon multiple factors, including designer, materials, construction methods, condition and provenance. On 1stDibs, the price for these items starts at $199 and tops out at $38,500 while the average work can sell for $1,820.

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