The History of Queen Anne Furniture

Queen Anne style furniture is one of the most recognized and popular style of antique furniture. Have you ever wondered how it came about and got its royal name? In this article I will explain the history of the furniture style and its name.

History of Queen Anne Style Furniture

Queen Anne’s reign ended in 1714 however this style of furniture did not become popular until 1720-1760. Queen Anne style furniture started to gain popularity in the Americas at the beginning of the 1720’s. Queen Anne style remain popular in modern furniture production. The furniture did not get its name until about a century after it was fashionable.

During Queen Anne’s reign (1702-1714) she introduced the custom of social tea drinking. This created a need for small movable furniture such as:

• Tables
• Chairs
• Ottomans
• Small Couches
• Chaise Lounges

This also created a demand for matching accessories such as:

• China Cabinets
• Desks
• Bookcases
• Secretaries
• Bedroom Furniture

During this era of furniture the tilt-top tea table was first made. Queen Anne style remain popular in modern furniture production.

Characters of the Queen Anne Style

Queen Anne furniture bought in light, curvy and dainty type furniture. This was a dramatic change from the heavy masculine furniture of styles past. This furniture has distinctive characteristics such as:

• Curved Lines
  • Feet
  • Legs
  • Arms
  • Crest Rails
  • Pediments
• Restrained Ornament (Usually Shell Shaped)
• C – Scrolls
• S- Scrolls
• Ogee (S-curve)

The most distinctive and recognizable character of Queen Anne furniture is the Cabriole legs.

The wood of choice for Queen Anne style furniture was walnut. However, poplar, cherry and maple were also used. Queen Anne furniture uses minimal ornamentation in contrast to earlier furniture styles.

Example of Queen Anne Furniture