Gothic 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. The style is characterized by such decorative flourishes as pointed arches, floral details, finials, heraldic motifs and linenfold carving. The movement was rooted in religious and social conservatism. Its 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 castle or cathedral that inspired it, a Gothic Revival chair makes 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 might make a statement that your home is indeed your castle.
20th Century Czech Gothic Furniture
Leather, Canvas, Wood, Paint
1910s French Vintage Gothic Furniture
Glass, Wood
Mid-20th Century American Gothic Furniture
Canvas, Wood
18th Century Belgian Antique Gothic Furniture
Canvas, Paint
20th Century European Gothic Furniture
Wood
20th Century French Gothic Furniture
Paint
1990s French Gothic Furniture
Canvas
1960s American Vintage Gothic Furniture
Mid-20th Century American Gothic Furniture
Paint
Early 20th Century Russian Gothic Furniture
Canvas, Giltwood
1910s French Vintage Gothic Furniture
Glass, Wood
20th Century French Gothic Furniture
Canvas, Wood, Paint
Late 19th Century English Antique Gothic Furniture
Paint, Canvas, Giltwood