18th - 19th Century
TRAVELLING THROUGH TIMES OF THE GREAT FRENCH EMPIRE
In only a few decades, the Baroque style approx. 1643-1715 was replaced by the curved lines and embellishments of the Rococo 1723 – 1774 . Then beginning 19thcentury, approx. 1800 – 1820 the Rococo was replaced by the straight lines of the Neoclassical.
Since the Baroque, France had been the cultural center of Europe and the French trends were usually replicated in Europe and their colonies. Therefore, the European furniture of the 18th century is closely related to the French styles. The start of the French Revolution transformed this nation and gradually influenced arts and design to change once more. The England developed its own fashion, and their furniture was very different.
The Country French or Provincial does not really have a specific period, it is defined as a “life style”. Many period furniture for example Louis XV, Louis XVI, Regence, Directoire and Louis Philippe, stood example and influenced the French country furniture relaxed, yet elegant style and finished.
The 19th century was a turmoiled time for France. Liberty and freedom movements led to violence, and powerful new leaders led to world revolutions, challenging France as an empire. Technological changes signaled a massive rearranging of European social structures.