Renaissance Furniture
In the strict meaning of the word, Renaissance furniture refers to a distinct style of furniture that was made from the 14th throughout the 17th century, an era which marked the end of the Middle Ages and the beginning of the Modern Period. Renaissance was the time of some of the greatest artists of all times such as Leonardo Da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael, Bramante, Sandro Botticelli, Donatello and many others. It was also the period of major intellectual rebirth of Europe which had a profound influence on science, literature, religion, politics and just about all aspects of life. Owning a piece of furniture from that era is therefore every antique lover’s dream.
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Renaissance furniture is not only valued for its distinct style and historical value but also due to its unique character which reflects the birth of a new era. It cannot compare to the achievements of Renaissance painting, however, it has something than cannot be found in neither Gothic furniture nor Baroque furniture that succeeded the Renaissance style. Both the preceding Gothic style and the succeeding Baroque style look amazing in modern homes, however, Gothic style lacks the clearness and precision that marked the era of Renaissance, whereas the decorative splendour of Baroque furniture is sometimes “too splendid”. Renaissance furniture is kind of a golden middle between Baroque and Gothic styles which makes it particularly sought after by connoisseurs who like furniture that was made in times when furniture making was an art form but do not like the splendour of Baroque furniture. |
During the period of Renaissance, furniture making was indeed an art form and each piece of furniture was made by hand by a skilled artisan who paid a great deal of attention to the overall harmony of the design as well as every tinniest detail. As a result, each piece of Renaissance furniture is an artwork. It may not be able to rival Leonardo da Vinci’s paintings but it can successfully compete with the finest pieces of modern furniture. Even more, modern furniture is often criticised for lacking personality which, no matter how exaggerated it sounds, is true when comparing antique and modern furniture. Modern furniture can look amazing and more sophisticated than antique furniture which often reveals smaller imperfections, however, it does not feel the same sitting on a chair for instance that was made by a skilled hand than on a chair that was cut with a machine within minutes.
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Finding Renaissance furniture is not an easy task, while the very few pieces that are available in antique stores are very expensive due to their historical and artistic value. Renaissance furniture can still be used as furniture even if it is hundreds of years old but it typically functions as a decorative item. But if authentic Renaissance furniture is out of your reach and if you would like to own a piece of furniture in Renaissance style, this should not be a problem because there are several manufacturers who are specialized in Renaissance style furniture. This furniture may not have the historical value, however, it does create a sophisticated look and a unique atmosphere. |