Old fashion furniture has a classic and formal feel.
Shopping for furniture is a daunting task. Not only must the pieces be comfortable, but they must go together and look well-matched in the house. Many prefer old fashioned designs to modern styles. Jacobean style couches have a classic look and are easy to include in both formal and informal rooms. Does this Spark an idea?
Jacobean Period
Jacobean refers to the styles in fashion during the reign of King James I of England. King James reigned from 1603 to 1625. Jacobean form and architecture is considered an early phase of the English Renaissance, and was consistent and formal. Jacobean furniture is considered a baroque type of furniture. Baroque is classified as heavily ornamented wide turns in the wood. Baroque furniture is generally thick and sturdy.
Fabric
According to Regal Fabrics glossary of historical fabrics, Jacobean fabric is almost always used on upholstery, including Jacobean couches. The fabric is heavy and embroidered with ornate designs that were originally inspired by Oriental artwork and finer fabrics. Fine detailing and small florals help categorize the embroidery as Jacobean. Common motifs for the padded seats on Jacobean type couches include flowers, fruits, vines and birds. These designs are often colorful and ornamental.
Structure
Jacobean style couches have a uniform, formal structure with thick pillars for legs and arms, and evenly rounded headboards. Some fancier styles will have ornate designs in the wood of the back of the couch. This structural type was a move away from the intricate, fine curlicue designs of Italy and was influenced by the more strait and formal structure found in German designs of the time. Later Renaissance furniture in England incorporated more Italian flair.
Material
According to the Buffalo Architectural Museum, Oak was the most popular wood for making good quality furniture both leading up to and during the Jacobean era. Jacobean style couches today are either made of oak or stained to look like oak. After the civil war broke out in England in 1660, Ash and Maple gained in popularity for making furniture. This may have been due to its lower cost.
Tags: Jacobean style, Jacobean style couches, style couches, couches have, formal structure