Understanding Decorative Arts

Style Periods Quick Guide

Gothic (1200-1500) - Religious themes dominant - Natural motifs stylized - Rich colors, gold abundant - Function following faith

Renaissance (1500-1600) - Classical mythology returns - Perspective in decoration - Humanism in design - Italian influence spreading

Baroque (1600-1750) - Everything excessive - Movement and drama - Gold reaching peak usage - Power displayed openly

Rococo (1700-1774) - Asymmetry and whimsy - Pastel colors, natural forms - Intimate scale preferred - Chinese influence (chinoiserie)

Neoclassical (1760-1820) - Return to Greek/Roman forms - Moral virtue through design - Archaeological accuracy - Revolution changing everything

Empire (1804-1815) - Napoleon's power style - Egyptian motifs post-campaign - Bees, eagles, and N everywhere - Masculine, military aesthetic

Materials and Techniques

Marquetry: Wood/shell/metal inlays creating pictures Gilding: Gold leaf applied to wood/bronze Ormolu: Gilded bronze mounts on furniture Porcelain: "White gold" rivaling precious metals Enamel: Glass powder fused to metal Pietra Dura: Stone inlay creating "paintings"

Reading the Objects

Every decorative piece tells stories: - Symbols: Flowers have meanings, animals represent qualities - Monograms: Ownership and period identified - Condition: Repairs reveal usage history - Style Mix: Dating through stylistic analysis - Scale: Public versus private purpose