Gothic Revival Furniture
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.
1960s American Vintage Gothic Revival Furniture
Metal
1930s Dutch Vintage Gothic Revival Furniture
Metal, Chrome
Mid-20th Century Italian Gothic Revival Furniture
Fabric, Wood
21st Century and Contemporary American Gothic Revival Furniture
Wood
1950s French Vintage Gothic Revival Furniture
Brass
20th Century Chinese Gothic Revival Furniture
Elm
Mid-20th Century American Gothic Revival Furniture
Fabric, Wood
1970s American Vintage Gothic Revival Furniture
Chrome
1980s Italian Vintage Gothic Revival Furniture
Iron
Early 20th Century Italian Gothic Revival Furniture
Upholstery, Hardwood
Late 20th Century Finnish Gothic Revival Furniture
Steel
1950s American Vintage Gothic Revival Furniture
Upholstery
20th Century Asian Gothic Revival Furniture
Rattan, Upholstery, Fabric