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A timeline of English Period Antiques from 1485 to 1918
When King Henry VII came to the throne 1485, the event signified the end of the Middle (Medieval) ages. It marked a brighter new era for England and the historic beginning of the English Renaissance.

Tudor Furniture Characteristics

Made of Oak.
Heavy, strong, detailed and uncomfortable furniture.
Similar to medieval and gothic furniture periods preceding it.

Often decorated with tapestries, embroidery, carpets, and fabrics.
Very rare as only a few rich people in the 1500's could afford such luxuries.

Before Elizabeth the furniture in previous ages was always made to be functional and plain, repetitive patterns and square based design. The Elizabethan age saw a greater degree of experimentation with furniture as influences from abroad made their mark. Furniture was also starting to be constructed out of Walnut, however due to the lack of strength many walnut pieces have not survived the years

Elizabethan Furniture Characteristics

Solid inlays now being used.
Mother of pearl, Gold Guiding, Marble.
A greater devotion to the arts.
Home decor objects becoming more available.
After having difficulties working with Walnut, the Jacobean period saw a move back to Oak. Not as square as previous Oak pieces they remained inward looking, without not fully embracing exotic influences, and its ornamentation became less prominent, more ordered and uniform, this was the last era of wax based finishes.

Jacobean Furniture Characteristics

Relief carvings of geometric or floral motifs
Solid and sturdy, made of Oak.
Influenced many early American pilgrims.
Accentuated mouldings used to divide areas into geometric shapes
The wax used to preserve the pieces has built up an aged dark oak lustre.
After England breaks out into civil war, leadership is overturned marking a new era, 'The Commonwealth' producing Cromwellian or puritan furniture. This era stands alone in the history of English furniture, moving away from the the Gothic styles we begin to see more ancient and classical forms of decoration, although the period continues to differ from foreign influences.

Puritan Furniture Characteristics

Wood carving and upholstery was rarely used.
Sharp, angular, a simple practical styling.

The Carolean or Restoration period brought the traditional aspects of English furniture back in line with European styles. It was also during this era that the ancient art of 'French polishing,' was beginning to be experimented

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