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Gustavian Furniture

GUSTAVIAN STYLE

With clean lines and muted colors, antique Gustavian furniture is understated and elegant. It represents a more restrained version of the transition from Rococo to neoclassicism that was happening in France under Louis XVI. The style developed under Swedish King Gustav III, who reigned from 1771 until his assassination in 1792, and his son Gustav IV, who ruled until 1809. Although Gustavian furniture is mostly used to refer to pale painted cabinets, commodes, armchairs and other items, it involved a range of influences.

Gustavian-style furniture was inspired by discoveries at Pompeii and Herculaneum as well as the grandeur of European palaces like Versailles, with local softwoods such as pine and birch. There was also an emphasis on natural light; crystal chandeliers and large mirrors played a role in radiating the fleeting daylight of winter, giving it a distinctive aesthetic.

Where earlier furniture was curvy and florid, this new era was more architectural, with tapered and fluted legs and rectangular and oval shapes. Luminous gilt contrasted with the palette of soft blues on upholstery and painted surfaces. Leading furniture builders included Gottlieb Iwersson, Louis Masreliez and Erik Öhrmark. The latter, a French-born Swedish decorator, designed the Sulla chair, a seat that was demonstrative of technical skill and precise craftsmanship and drew on Greek klismos chairs. Masreliez’s Sulla chair was made by Öhrmark and featured decorative ornamentation produced by Jean-Baptiste Masreliez, Louis’s younger brother.

While the wealthy had furniture carved with neoclassical details like scallops and rosettes, more affordable options were adorned with faux finishes that mimicked marble and stenciled patterns. The simple elegance of Gustavian furniture would have a long impact on Swedish design, informing the 20th-century appreciation for function and form. In the 1950s, IKEA mass-produced copies of a Gustavian commode designed by cabinetmaker Georg Haupt, who created pieces for the Royal Palace, making the furniture a fixture of everyday Swedish life.

Find a collection of antique Gustavian seating, tables, decorative objects and other furniture on 1stDibs.

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Item Ships From: Texas
Style: Gustavian
19th Century Round Gustavian Table
Located in Houston, TX
Round Swedish table on 4 legs with criss-crossed stretcher below. Carved detail around the apron and rectangular medallions at the top of each leg....
Category

19th Century Swedish Antique Gustavian Furniture

Materials

Pine

Swedish Drop-Leaf Dining Table in Early Ocher Paint
Located in Houston, TX
Swedish drop-leaf dining table in early ocher paint. Circa 1820-1840. Good condition. Stable, sturdy and level. All legs, stretchers, top and base are original. The majority of paint...
Category

1830s Swedish Antique Gustavian Furniture

Materials

Steel

Original Painted Console, Sweden circa 1800-20
Located in Round Top, TX
This impressive console will make a grand statement in any home. The uniquely shaped wood base was hand-painted; one can still see the faux marble design that was a traditional style...
Category

Early 19th Century Swedish Antique Gustavian Furniture

Materials

Oak, Paint

Original Blue Painted Swedish Mora Grandfather Clock, circa 1800-20
Located in Round Top, TX
Hand painted Swedish Mora grandfather clock with original soft blue painted finish distressed through years of use with pine wood revealed below. Note the gentle curves in the base a...
Category

Early 19th Century Swedish Antique Gustavian Furniture

Materials

Glass, Pine, Paint

Early 19th Century Swedish Painted Commode, Chest of Drawers
Located in Dallas, TX
Early 19th century Swedish painted commode ~ chest of drawers is a timeless example of the craftsmanship and artistry in cabinetmaking for which the Swedes are well known. Their repu...
Category

1820s Swedish Antique Gustavian Furniture

Materials

Brass

18th Century Swedish Painted Two-Tiered Corner Cabinet
Located in Dallas, TX
18th Century Swedish painted two-tiered corner cabinet represents the essence of tailored elegance, with a rustic charm that only the Swedes can produce! Encompassing a quarter of a ...
Category

Late 18th Century Swedish Antique Gustavian Furniture

Materials

Pine

18th Century Swedish Gustavian Period Painted Buffet
Located in Dallas, TX
18th century Swedish Gustavian Period painted buffet will make a handsome addition to your collection, and a stylistic touch to your decor! Hand-crafted from indigenous old-growth pi...
Category

Late 18th Century Swedish Antique Gustavian Furniture

Materials

Brass

19th Century Swedish Gustavian Armoire Cupboard Cabinet
Located in San Angelo, TX
A beautiful Swedish Gustavian cabinet that has been painted and dry scrapped over its lifetime. It dissembles into two parts. This beautiful piece shows the original paint job with p...
Category

19th Century Swedish Antique Gustavian Furniture

Materials

Pine, Paint

Early 19th Century Swedish Gustavian Large Gray Chest of Four Drawers
Located in Round Top, TX
Stately Gustavian chest of four drawers with dentil molding carved along top and gentle fluted carving central to each drawer. The newer, professionally applied light gray painted la...
Category

Early 19th Century Swedish Antique Gustavian Furniture

Materials

Brass

Pair, Gustavian Style Wingback Gray Chairs, Sweden circa 1920-40
Located in Round Top, TX
Graceful with a romantic air, this pair of Gustavian style wingback armchairs have delicate carving along frame,crown and skirt and rest on cabriolet legs. This pair of arm chairs ar...
Category

Early 20th Century Swedish Gustavian Furniture

Materials

Linen, Wood, Paint

Rustic Antique Country Swedish Gustavian Distressed Painted Pine Stand
Located in Forney, TX
A most distinctive Swedish Country hand painted wooden stand. Hand-crafted of solid pine, most likely Gustavian Period (1772–1809), finished on all sides, showcasing layers of the or...
Category

19th Century Antique Gustavian Furniture

Materials

Pine, Paint

Early 19th Century Swedish Gustavian White Painted Pine Sideboard Cupboard
Located in Round Top, TX
Gustavian original white painted tall pine sideboard or server cabinet with traditional carved fluted diamond panels in doors, tapered feet. The original white painted finish has bee...
Category

Early 19th Century Swedish Antique Gustavian Furniture

Materials

Pine, Paint

Antique Gustavian Gray Painted Tall Sideboard Buffet Server circa 1820-40
Located in Round Top, TX
Gustavian gray painted tall pine sideboard or server cabinet with contrasting faux painted top in black, gray and white. Scallop or fan detail carved in center above narrow shelf. ...
Category

Mid-19th Century Swedish Antique Gustavian Furniture

Materials

Pine, Paint

Early 20th Century Swedish Gustavian Buffet
Located in Houston, TX
The Early 20th Century Swedish Gustavian Buffet embodies the refined elegance and craftsmanship characteristic of the Gustavian style. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, it...
Category

Early 20th Century Swedish Gustavian Furniture

Materials

Wood

Large Antique Swedish Rörstrand Porcelain Signed Hand Painted Decorative Tray
Located in Forney, TX
A rare monumental Swedish Rörstrand porcelain (established in 1726) heavy high quality decorative serving tray. Exquisitely hand-crafted in Sweden in the early 20th century, the dished and molded palatial rectangular shaped tray features exceptionally executed period Art Nouveau hand-painted polychrome decoration, adorned with neoclassical motif of florals, foliage, acanthus leaves, and urn with flowers. Signed, marked Rorstrand with three crowns to verso, dated 1913, and lower right impressed HD Rorstrand CO 1/2. Provenance / Acquisition: Hailing from the estate of a former supermodel and actress, Kathy Speirs-Puccio, who spared no expense in the decorating of her massive, curated to perfection Weston home. Kathy Speirs-Puccio, who throughout her acting and modeling career (she graced multiple magazine covers in the 1970s including Cosmopolitan. She collected, wore, and kept only the finest in designer fashion and accessories. Her passion for high design continued through until the end of her life. Acquired from the reputable auction house Blackrock Galleries...
Category

Early 20th Century Swedish Gustavian Furniture

Materials

Porcelain, Paint

19th Century Swedish Gustavian Writing Desk Secretary
Located in San Angelo, TX
This beautiful and unique 19th century Swedish Gustavian writing desk is perfect for any room or hallway. The colors are amazing with th...
Category

19th Century Swedish Antique Gustavian Furniture

Materials

Wood, Pine, Paint

Gray Painted Small Chest of Nine Drawers, Sweden circa 1860
Located in Round Top, TX
Fascinating Gustavian pine chest of nine drawers with fluted columns, dentil molding and tapered fluted feet. The unique configuration of drawers with central three in a square shape...
Category

Mid-19th Century Swedish Antique Gustavian Furniture

Materials

Pine, Paint

Early 20th Century Swedish Painted Grandfather Clock
Located in Houston, TX
The Early 20th Century Swedish Painted Grandfather Clock stands as a testament to the exquisite craftsmanship and timeless beauty of its era. Gilded and intricately carved around its...
Category

Early 20th Century Swedish Gustavian Furniture

Materials

Glass, Wood, Paint

Set of Twelve 18th Century Swedish Gustavian Dining Chairs includes 2 Armchairs
Located in Dallas, TX
Set of Twelve 18th Century Swedish Gustavian Dining Chairs includes 2 Armchairs were built to grace an elegant mansion in Sweden, now ready to add style, flair and timeless elegance ...
Category

Late 18th Century Swedish Antique Gustavian Furniture

Materials

Mohair, Elm

Tall White Painted Trumeau Mirror with Greek Figures, Sweden circa 1900
Located in Round Top, TX
Tall decorative trumeau mirror with carved accents. Upper section portrays Greek figures against a blue painted background. The antique white painted finish is lightly distressed cre...
Category

Early 20th Century Swedish Gustavian Furniture

Materials

Mirror, Wood, Paint

Vintage Persian Isfahan Rug, Relaxed Refinement Meets Mediterranean Charm
Located in Dallas, TX
61251 Vintage Blue Persian Isfahan Rug, 08'02 x 11'07. ​Nestled in the heart of central Iran lies a haven of artistry and tradition: the captivating city of Isfahan. Here, amid whisp...
Category

Late 20th Century Persian Gustavian Furniture

Materials

Wool

Distressed Vintage Turkish Sivas Rug with Modern Rustic Cotswold Cottage Style
Located in Dallas, TX
​51292 Distressed Vintage Turkish Sivas Rug with Modern Rustic Cotswold Cottage Style 08'00 x 12'05. ​With its soft, subtle hues and cozy simplicity, ...
Category

Mid-20th Century Turkish Gustavian Furniture

Materials

Wool

19th Century Swedish Carved and Painted Gustavian Style Cabinet
Located in Dallas, TX
Introducing a lovely 19th century Swedish carved and painted Gustavian style cabinet. Crafted with care, this cabinet is a perfect addition to your collection of antique furniture. I...
Category

19th Century Swedish Antique Gustavian Furniture

Materials

Wood

19th Century Swedish Gustavian Reeded 2 Door 2 Drawer Buffet
Located in San Angelo, TX
A Swedish Gustavian style painted wood buffet from the 19th century with reeded drawers over doors, and distressed patina. Created in Sweden during the ...
Category

19th Century Swedish Antique Gustavian Furniture

Materials

Brass

19th Century Swedish Gustavian Bar Cabinet
Located in San Angelo, TX
A unique and one of a kind 19th century Gustavian Swedish bar cabinet. This can be used for many things and can also function as a serving area. Pai...
Category

19th Century Swedish Antique Gustavian Furniture

Materials

Wood, Paint

1920's Persian Mahal Carpet with Traditional Style
Located in Dallas, TX
72659 Antique Persian Mahal Rug, 06'09 x 10'02. Emanating a rich tableau of history and color, this hand-knotted wool antique Persian Mahal rug enchants with its bold artistry and tr...
Category

Early 20th Century Persian Gustavian Furniture

Materials

Wool

1950's Turkish Oushak Carpet with Gustavian or French Country Style
Located in Dallas, TX
51117, vintage Turkish Oushak hallway runner with Gustavian or French Country style. This hand knotted wool vintage Turkish Oushak runner features five amulet medallions filled with ...
Category

Mid-20th Century Turkish Gustavian Furniture

Materials

Wool

19th Century Swedish Gustavian Gray Pine Sideboard Buffet Cabinet
Located in Round Top, TX
Gustavian light gray painted pine sideboard or server cabinet with two drawers over two doors and simple rim around top sides and back. The newer, professionally applied soft gray-wa...
Category

Mid-19th Century Swedish Antique Gustavian Furniture

Materials

Pine, Paint

Pair, 19th Century Large White Pine Chest of Six Drawers from Sweden
Located in Round Top, TX
Pair of large, 4' wide pine chests with six drawers each. Newer professionally applied and layered white painted finish, lightly distressed to fit age of this pair. Restored, strong...
Category

Mid-19th Century Swedish Antique Gustavian Furniture

Materials

Pine, Paint

19th Century Gray Swedish Gustavian Style Pine Sideboard Buffet Cabinet
Located in Round Top, TX
Gustavian pale gray painted pine sideboard or server cabinet with large doors and interior single shelf. The newer, professionally applied soft gray-washed painted finish is lightly ...
Category

Early 19th Century Swedish Antique Gustavian Furniture

Materials

Pine, Paint

19th Century Black Swedish Pine Tall Narrow Bookcase Display Cabinet
Located in Round Top, TX
Narrow and tall Swedish display cabinet with decorative lattice work along upper glass doors.  Note the striking black painted exterior and contrasting gray interior; while a newer f...
Category

Mid-19th Century Swedish Antique Gustavian Furniture

Materials

Glass, Pine, Paint

19th Century Gustavian White Painted Small Chest of Three Drawers
Located in Round Top, TX
Gustavian painted pine small chest of three drawers with dentil molding along top and pair of griffins on top drawer. Newer professionally applied and layered antique white painted f...
Category

Early 19th Century Swedish Antique Gustavian Furniture

Materials

Brass

19th Century Small Swedish Gustavian Chest of Drawers Nightstand
Located in Round Top, TX
Small oak chest of four drawers with bow front, Greek key or "meander" carving along upper narrow drawer. Restored, later professionally painted in layered shades of pale gray (with ...
Category

Early 19th Century Danish Antique Gustavian Furniture

Materials

Brass

19th Century Swedish Gustavian White Painted Sideboard Narrow Console Cabinet
Located in Round Top, TX
The attractive soft color pallet of this Swedish pine cabinet or console comes from the original hand-painted antique white finish which has been gently scraped and softly distressed...
Category

Mid-19th Century Swedish Antique Gustavian Furniture

Materials

Pine, Paint

Pair, 19th Century Swedish White Gustavian Style Small Cabinets or Nightstands
Located in Round Top, TX
Pair, small Swedish country Gustavian style white painted nightstands or small cabinets standing on tapered feet. Unique to this pair is the interior with four small drawers in each....
Category

Late 19th Century Swedish Antique Gustavian Furniture

Materials

Brass

19th Century Swedish Gustavian Painted Console Table
Located in Round Top, TX
Swedish Gustavian style console table with tapered legs. Applied carved embellishments top the legs and a lion medallion in the center of skirt each add to the romantic appeal of thi...
Category

Late 19th Century Swedish Antique Gustavian Furniture

Materials

Wood, Paint

Pair, Gustavian Style White Painted Stools, Sweden circa 1880
Located in Round Top, TX
This lovely pair of Gustavian style Swedish stools are a special find due to their size. They each rest on tapered fluted legs while intricate carving along the skirt also adds an el...
Category

Late 19th Century Swedish Antique Gustavian Furniture

Materials

Linen, Wood, Paint

Gold and Green Painted Trumeau Mirror, Sweden circa 1820-40
Located in Round Top, TX
Lovely trumeau mirror painted in soft shades of green, pale red, and gold. At just under 4' tall, its size allows it to be displayed in a wide variety of spaces. In solid condition r...
Category

Mid-19th Century Swedish Antique Gustavian Furniture

Materials

Mirror, Wood, Paint

19th Century Gray Swedish Gustavian Bench
Located in Round Top, TX
This elegant Swedish Gustavian sofa or settee has graceful decorative arms curving outward.  Please enlarge and examine the close up photos to appreciate the newer, professionally ap...
Category

Mid-19th Century Swedish Antique Gustavian Furniture

Materials

Muslin, Pine, Paint

19th Century Swedish Gray Gustavian Bench
Located in Round Top, TX
This lovely bench is a wonderful example of Swedish Gustavian craftsmanship with turned finials and feet, slat back and egg and dart carving adding to its timeless appeal. The gray p...
Category

Mid-19th Century Swedish Antique Gustavian Furniture

Materials

Linen, Pine, Paint

Distressed Vintage Turkish Sivas Rug with Swedish Cottage Gustavian Style
Located in Dallas, TX
52573 Zeki Muren Distressed Vintage Turkish Sivas rug with Swedish cottage Gustavian style. Whimsy and rusticity collide in this hand knotted wool dist...
Category

Mid-20th Century Turkish Gustavian Furniture

Materials

Wool

Vintage Turkish Oushak Hallway Runner with Gustavian or French Country Style
Located in Dallas, TX
51145, vintage Turkish Oushak hallway runner with Gustavian or French Country style. This hand knotted wool vintage Turkish Oushak runner features five amulet medallions filled with ...
Category

Mid-20th Century Turkish Gustavian Furniture

Materials

Wool

Vintage Turkish Oushak Hallway Runner with Gustavian or French Country Style
Located in Dallas, TX
51146 Vintage Turkish Oushak Hallway Runner with Gustavian or French Country Style 04'10 X 12'03. This hand knotted wool vintage Turkish Oushak runner features five amulet medallions...
Category

Mid-20th Century Turkish Gustavian Furniture

Materials

Wool

19th Century White Swedish Gustavian Sideboard Buffet
Located in Round Top, TX
Swedish Gustavian painted pine sideboard with attractive curved sides and panel details.The curved end cabinet doors make this cabinet a special find. Later professionally painted in...
Category

Mid-19th Century Swedish Antique Gustavian Furniture

Materials

Brass

19th Century Gustavian Carved and Painted Occasional Table
Located in Dallas, TX
Very fine 19th century Gustavian carved occasional table. Featuring a beautifully carved base and claw feet. Makes an elegant statement!
Category

19th Century Swedish Antique Gustavian Furniture

Materials

Wood

Gustavian furniture for sale on 1stDibs.

Find a broad range of unique Gustavian furniture 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 furniture created in this style to your space, the works available on 1stDibs include case pieces and storage cabinets, seating, tables and other home furnishings, frequently crafted with wood, softwood and other materials. If you’re shopping for used Gustavian furniture made in a specific country, there are Europe, Scandinavia, and Sweden pieces for sale on 1stDibs. While there are many designers and brands associated with original furniture, popular names associated with this style include Ephraim Stahl, Hendrix Allardyce, Hans-Agne Jakobsson, and Jonas Frisk. 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 furniture differ depending upon multiple factors, including designer, materials, construction methods, condition and provenance. On 1stDibs, the price for these items starts at $50 and tops out at $49,500 while the average work can sell for $4,473.

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