Colonial Furniture: Interesting, Authentic And For A Life Time!

By James Goodspeed Edwards

This intricate craft emerged as a contribution from various parts of the globe, like renaissance from Italy, fine inlaying influence from Spaniards, baroque style from the Dutch. Imagine a blend of styles and what would the outcome be-Well, the outcome can only be Colonial furniture. A flash of renaissance style from Italy, the baroque style from Dutch, the smooth inlaying from Spaniards- all influences are seen with clarity in this craftsman ship. Well, it's a great variety to choose from.

Colonial furniture is heavy and durable kind, unique and natural wood furniture. It has often under gone changes ever since it has been appreciated since last 4oo years. Inspired by the culture and nativity of the freed Country, the shades and glimpses of various styling - the pilgrim furniture style, William and Mary style, Queen Anne style, Federal style, Chippendale style and Shaker style are predominant. To describe a few, the federal style was more into ornamentation and the shaker style was in accordance with the tastes of a person who had a liking for a simple yet clean designs. They were more functional and practical kind.

Are You The Classic Type or The Folk Type?

You can basically go down to two distinctive categories of furniture under the heading of colonial furniture. The first type is the one where traditionally the English makers are followed, imitating the rich classy furniture found at the aristocratic houses of the British. The other type is not less interesting where you are presented with the local man's craftsman ship with the folk type tradition-the bureaus, chairs and table, drawers and chests, cabinets.

The form is always simple and the material is heavy. The various designs are generally in the variations made in breadth and authentic graceful curves of this solid wood. To make your furniture authentic, you need to use the same wood as that of pine, maple, oak, ash or elm, and molded into most of the geometric patterns.

Painting was a predominant feature on the boxier, minimal carvings of the folk pieces. From the arcade panels to meticulous details, all can be found here. Brass was also used for everyday objects.

Silver, is also used as a part and parcel of this exclusive furniture. However, pewter replaced silver when ever required- Well, it's just suit your pockets! Pewter was made attractive with the home made designs.

Care Taking Tips:

Maintenance remains an important aspect here also! Not to worry, dusting this furniture is not a difficult task at all. What you would need is to use a cloth of microfiber, which easily removes the dust settlements.

Polishing is actually not required. But, if you still want to go ahead with it, go for a non wax-based polish. Remember, the wax-based polishes take away the luster of the furniture. - 29975

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