Gothic Revival Seating
The Gothic Revival movement (also called Victorian Gothic or Neo-Gothic) emerged in Britain in the 1740s, and reached its height in the late-19th century. Gothic Revival furniture's characteristics include such decorative flourishes as pointed arches, floral details, finials, heraldic motifs and linenfold carving.
The movement was rooted in religious and social conservatism. Gothic Revival's proponents, who included Charles Barry and A.W.N. Pugin, the architects of London’s Houses of Parliament (designed in 1840), believed that the art and architecture of the Middle Ages were authentically spiritual and inherently moral.
In the United States, the Gothic Revival movement shaped both public buildings and private houses. Numerous American schools were built in the early-19th century in a style now called Collegiate Gothic. Many builders and craftsmen were inspired by Andrew Jackson Downing’s widely read 1850 book Architecture for Country Houses, which posited that a family’s home should exemplify their values — and that the Gothic Revival style was particularly well-suited to scholars and clergymen. Furniture with detailing that mirrored that of Gothic Revival buildings appeared in the same period. Such pieces typically feature dark, intricately carved wood, and upholstery in velvet or leather.
Much like the castles or cathedrals that inspired them, Gothic Revival chairs, bookcases and beds make a bold design statement. And while you probably don’t have to cross a moat or raise a portcullis to get through your front door, a Gothic Revival piece will declare that your home is indeed your castle.
Mid-19th Century English Antique Gothic Revival Seating
Oak
1920s Vintage Gothic Revival Seating
Upholstery, Oak
Mid-20th Century French Gothic Revival Seating
Leather
2010s Spanish Gothic Revival Seating
Oak, Leather
Mid-20th Century North American Gothic Revival Seating
Fabric, Wood
1890s German Antique Gothic Revival Seating
Wood, Oak
1940s American Vintage Gothic Revival Seating
Wood
19th Century Unknown Antique Gothic Revival Seating
Linen, Wood
20th Century French Gothic Revival Seating
Mid-20th Century American Gothic Revival Seating
Fabric, Oak
Late 20th Century Unknown Gothic Revival Seating
Faux Bamboo, Upholstery, Wood
1950s American Vintage Gothic Revival Seating
Upholstery, Cherry
1950s American Vintage Gothic Revival Seating
Brass