Encyclopedia of Antiques

Victorian

Queen Victoria occupied the English throne from 1837 to 1901.  During this time the Victorian style of funrniture was developed. 

A German, John Henry Belter brought with him a unique skill in woodcarving and cabinetmaking.   His choice of wood was rosewood.  By laminating it, he made Vctorian chairs with concave backs and fine carving.  Laminating the wood was utilized in rounding corners of pianos and was used by the Steinway Piano Company.   Belter did not disclose his formular for laminating until five years before he died when he patented the process.  Belter destroyed his pattern molds and all designs before he died making some of his pieces very rare. 

Victorian furniture was heavy and upholstery colors and wood tones were generally dark.  Flowers, classical figures, scrolls, and leaves were motifs of decorations.   

Marble was popular during this time to cover chest, washstands, and tables. 
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