A Lustrous Legacy: Brass in the 18th and 19th Century Decorative Arts of England

A Lustrous Legacy: Brass in the 18th and 19th Century Decorative Arts of England

108 products
108 products

Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, brass was a key material in English decorative arts. Valued for its golden glow, durability, and versatility, this copper–zinc alloy was used in everything from elegant furniture fittings to ornate household objects.


Georgian Era Brass: Elegance and Classical Influence

In the Georgian period (18th century), taste was defined by ornamental elegance and classical simplicity. Brass featured prominently in:

  • Candlesticks and clocks
  • Furniture fittings
  • Fireplace accessories

Its warm lustre and ability to be cast into fine motifs made it a favourite for designers inspired by classical architecture and design.


The Industrial Revolution and Birmingham’s Brass Industry

The Industrial Revolution transformed brass production in late 18th-century England. Birmingham became the centre of the trade, producing vast quantities of brass items.

A leading figure was Matthew Boulton, who pioneered ormolu (gilded brass), giving middle-class households the look of gold without the cost.


Victorian Brass: Variety and Innovation in the 19th Century

The Victorian era embraced a mix of historical styles and new movements. Brass remained a staple of decorative arts, particularly in the:

  • Aesthetic Movement
  • Arts and Crafts Movement

Objects ranged from picture frames, bedsteads, and door handles to intricate furniture trims, showing both utility and artistry.


Brass Mass Production and Handcrafted Traditions

By the late 19th century, technology enabled the mass production of brass items, making them affordable and widely available. Yet handcrafted artistry remained valued. Many Victorian brass objects combined machine-made elements with hand-finishing, reflecting both modern innovation and traditional craftsmanship.


Legacy of Brass in English Decorative Arts

Brass in the 18th and 19th centuries illustrates England’s evolving styles, technologies, and social values. From Georgian refinement to Victorian eclecticism, brass objects captured the spirit of their age.

Today, antique brass pieces continue to enchant collectors and interior designers with their historic charm, golden glow, and timeless appeal.

 FAQs About Antique Brass in Decorative Arts

 

1. How can you identify antique brass?

Antique brass typically has a warm golden tone that develops a natural patina over time. Signs of hand-finishing, irregularities in casting, and wear on frequently touched areas (such as handles or candlesticks) can help distinguish authentic pieces.

2. Why was brass so popular in Georgian and Victorian homes?

Brass combined affordability, durability, and beauty. It could be polished to a gold-like shine yet was more practical and versatile, making it ideal for both decorative and functional items.

3. What types of antique brass objects are most collectible today?

Highly sought-after examples include Georgian candlesticks, Victorian picture frames, ormolu-mounted furniture, fireplace accessories, and brass clocks. Unusual motifs or pieces linked to notable makers (such as Matthew Boulton) attract particular interest.

4. How did the Industrial Revolution change brass production?

The Industrial Revolution allowed brass to be mass-produced in Birmingham and beyond, reducing costs and increasing availability. This shift made brass objects accessible across social classes while still leaving space for luxury, handcrafted designs.

5. Why does antique brass often have a darker colour than modern brass?

Over time, brass develops a patina—a natural darkening caused by oxidation and handling. Collectors often value this aged appearance as it reflects authenticity and history, though some pieces may be polished to restore their original glow.

6. Is brass the same as bronze?

No, brass and bronze are different alloys. Brass is made from copper and zinc, while bronze is typically made from copper and tin. Brass has a warmer golden tone and is more malleable, making it ideal for decorative arts. Bronze, by contrast, has a darker brownish hue and greater hardness, often used in sculpture and weaponry.

Austin of Shoreditch grandfather clock with red japanned chinoiserie design by Collection TH20, circa 1720 England
Close-up of ornate brass dial with Roman numerals and decorative engravings from Collection TH20 Austin of Shoreditch clock
Austin of Shoreditch
Collection TH20
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Mid 18th century Dutch longcase clock by Pietre and Jan Morjin, rich burr-walnut, from Nicholas Wells Antiques
Close-up of an 18th-century Pietre & Jan Morjin Dutch longcase clock dial, sold by Nicholas Wells Antiques
Pietre & Jan Morjin Early Dutch Longcase Clock
Nicholas Wells Antiques
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Set of ten French Charles X period satinwood and mahogany side chairs by Collection CK20 with lyre splat backs
French antique satinwood side chair with lyre splat and green velvet seat by Collection CK20
Ten French Antique Satinwood Side Chairs – Charles X Period
Collection CK20
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George III Cellarette Attributed To Gillows, oval mahogany cabinet with reeded legs and brass lion handles, circa 1800.
George III Cellarette Attributed To Gillows in mahogany with brass lion handles and reeded legs on casters.
George III Cellarette Attributed To Gillows
Collection CK30
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Pair of Regency lyre form rosewood library chairs upholstered in blue fabric from Collection CK20
Regency lyre form rosewood library chair with blue upholstery by Collection CK20, circa 1820, elegant neoclassical design.
Pair of Regency Lyre Form Rosewood Library Chairs
Collection CK20
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Rich Plum Pudding Mahogany and Brass Bound Pedestal Desk with multiple drawers and brass detailing circa 1870 England.
Rich Plum Pudding Mahogany and Brass Bound Pedestal Desk
Nicholas Wells Antiques
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George III serpentine chest of drawers by Henry Hill, mahogany with brass handles, from Collection CK20
George III serpentine chest of drawers by Henry Hill of Marlborough in mahogany with brass handles Collection CK20
Henry Hill of Marlborough | George III Serpentine Chest of Drawers
Collection CK20
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Edo Japanese Black Lacquer and Gilt Trunk with domed lid, brass mounts, drop handles, and polished black lacquer finish.
Edo Japanese Black Lacquer and Gilt Trunk close-up showing black lacquer and intricate gilt brass handle details.
Edo Japanese Black Lacquer and Gilt Trunk
Collection EE40
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Pair of George III mahogany bedside cabinets with brass hardware, elegant Regency design by Collection CK20
George III mahogany bedside cabinet with brass hardware and fluted legs by Collection CK20 circa 1800 England
Pair of George III Mahogany Bedside Cabinets
Collection CK20
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Fine English 19th Century Regency Convex Mirror with gilt eagle, acanthus leaves, candle arms, and decorative mouldings.
Fine English 19th Century Regency Convex Mirror with gilt frame, eagle crest, candle arms, and ebonised slip detailing.
Fine English 19th Century Regency Convex Mirror
Collection CK40
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Early Georgian Oak Sideboard with brass handles, cabriole legs, flat oak top, circa 1720, elegant 18th-century design.
Early Georgian Oak Sideboard with four drawers, brass handles, cabriole legs, and polished oak finish circa 1720.
Early Georgian Oak Sideboard
Collection CK30
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Ham House George I burr walnut bureau with brass fittings by Nicholas Wells Antiques, early 18th-century English cabinet.
Ham House George I burr walnut bureau with brass hardware by Nicholas Wells Antiques, early 18th-century English piece
Ham House George I Burr Walnut Bureau
Nicholas Wells Antiques
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PAIR LOUIS XVI MAHOGANY CONSOLE DESSERTS with grey marble tops, brass galleries, and fluted column legs circa 1800 France.
PAIR LOUIS XVI MAHOGANY CONSOLE DESSERTS with grey marble top, brass gallery, gilt handles, fluted legs, circa 1800.
PAIR LOUIS XVI MAHOGANY CONSOLE DESSERTS
Collection CK30
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Regency Rosewood Drum Table with scalloped leather top, three drawers with brass star handles, and paw feet.
Regency Rosewood Drum Table close-up of brass lion mask drawer handle on rich rosewood woodwork.
Regency Rosewood Drum Table
Collection CK30
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Set of six Anglo Indian ebony side chairs with caned seats and carved details by Collection EE30
Set of six Anglo Indian ebony side chairs with carved foliate details and caned seats by Collection EE30
Set of Six Anglo Indian Ebony Side Chairs
Collection EE30
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A pair of 19th Century English library chairs with carved mahogany and silk upholstery by Collection CK20
19th Century English mahogany library chair with carved details and damask upholstery by Collection CK20
A pair of magnificent 19th Century library chairs
Collection CK20
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Mid 18th century George II mahogany chest of drawers with brass handles by Collection CK20, elegant antique furniture piece
Mid 18th century George II mahogany chest of drawers with brass handles by Collection CK20 in excellent condition.
Mid 18th Century George II Mahogany Chest of Drawers
Collection CK20
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A Demi Lune tortoiseshell cabinet by Mallett with simulated red tortoiseshell and mahogany cross-banding.
A Demi Lune tortoiseshell cabinet by Mallett with red simulated tortoiseshell and brass banded edge.
A Demi Lune tortoiseshell cabinet by Mallett
Collection TH30
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George Bullock Breakfront Rosewood and Brass Inlaid Side Cabinet with glazed doors and floral marquetry panels circa 1810 England
George Bullock Breakfront Rosewood and Brass Inlaid Side Cabinet with glazed doors and floral marquetry panels circa 1810.
George Bullock Breakfront Rosewood and Brass Inlaid Side Cabinet
Nicholas Wells Antiques
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Pair of Regency rosewood side cabinets with brass inlay and scroll feet by Collection PK10, early 19th century elegance.
Regency rosewood side cabinet with brass inlay and scroll feet from Collection PK10, early 19th century England design.
Pair of Regency Rosewood Side Cabinets
Collection PK10
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GEORGE I BURR WALNUT BUREAU CHEST early 18th century fall front desk with four drawers and brass handles.
GEORGE I BURR WALNUT BUREAU CHEST with fall front, brass handles, secret compartments, and figured walnut finish.
GEORGE I BURR WALNUT BUREAU CHEST
Collection PK10
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Victorian Satinwood Writing Table by Gillow & Co with figured veneer, two drawers, fluted legs, and brass castors circa 1870.
Victorian Satinwood Writing Table by Gillow & Co with figured satinwood top, two drawers, fluted legs, and brass castors.
Victorian Satinwood Writing Table by Gillow & Co
Collection EE40
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Extending Oval Dining Table in the Manner of George Bullock with mahogany top and ebony stringing on pedestal base.
Extending Oval Dining Table in the Manner of George Bullock, mahogany oval top with pedestal base and cast brass castors.
Extending Oval Dining Table in the Manner of George Bullock
Nicholas Wells Antiques
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Late 18th century Louis XVI French Console Dessert with Gris St Anne marble, brass details, and flame mahogany veneers.
Late 18th century Louis XVI French Console Dessert with flame mahogany veneer and brass detailing, drawer open view
Late 18th century Louis XVI French Console Dessert
Nicholas Wells Antiques
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George III mahogany dressing table with brass fittings by Collection NE10 inspired by Thomas Sheraton style
Antique engraving of George III dressing table with folding lid and compartments by Collection NE10
George III Dressing Table Commissioned by Sir Joshua Reynolds
Collection NE10
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A pair of Regency parcel gilt armchairs with cane seats and brass feet from Collection TH20.
Regency parcel gilt armchair with elegant carved frame and brass details by Collection TH20 in black and gold finish
A pair of Regency parcel gilt armchairs
Collection TH20
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A pair of early 19th century mahogany bergère armchairs with grey upholstery from Collection TH20.
A pair of early 19th century mahogany bergère armchairs with grey upholstery from Collection TH20.
A Pair of Early 19th Century Mahogany Bergere Armchairs
Collection TH20
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George I Walnut Kneehole Desk with brass handles, feather banding, kneehole cupboard, and ogee bracket feet circa 1715.
George I Walnut Kneehole Desk with feather banding, brass handles, cupboard, and drawers on ogee bracket feet.
George I Walnut Kneehole Desk
Nicholas Wells Antiques
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Elegant 18th-century Sanders of Manchester mahogany longcase clock with Gothic details, from Collection PK10.
Sanders of Manchester mahogany longcase clock with moonphase dial by Collection PK10, Georgian period elegance
Sanders of Manchester
Collection PK10
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Pair of Regency style caned library chairs with fluted legs and brass castors by Collection EE30, English craftsmanship
Pair of Regency style caned library chairs with brass castors and turned legs by Collection EE30
Pair of Regency Style Caned Library Chairs
Collection EE30
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Imposing French Directoire commode with brass details and Carrara marble top by Collection EE40
Imposing French Directoire commode with crotch mahogany, brass accents, Carrara marble top by Collection EE40.
Imposing French Directoire Commode
Collection EE40
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19th Century Rosewood Bureau Cabinet by Gillows with cabriole legs, brass castors, and satinwood pigeon holes circa 1850.
19th Century Rosewood Bureau Cabinet by Gillows with satinwood pigeon holes, secret drawers, and cabriole legs on brass castors.
19th Century Rosewood Bureau Cabinet | Gillows
Collection EE40
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Regency Fiddleback Mahogany Partners Writing Table with tooled leather top, turned legs, brass castors, and drawers circa 1815.
Regency Fiddleback Mahogany Partners Writing Table corner detail showing tooled leather top and carved leg on brass castor.
Regency Fiddleback Mahogany Partners Writing Table
Collection PK10
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Arts And Crafts Writing Table By Marsh And Jones inlaid satinwood with turned columns and trefoil brass casters.
Arts And Crafts Writing Table By Marsh And Jones with satinwood top and foliate inlay, circa 1900, elegant craftsmanship.
Arts And Crafts Writing Table By Marsh And Jones
Collection TH30
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Louis XV Marquetry Vitrine on Chest with floral marquetry, glazed doors, drawers, and cabriole legs, Dutch circa 1730.
Louis XV Marquetry Vitrine on Chest, 18th century Flemish floral marquetry, glazed doors, serpentine chest, cabriole legs.
Louis XV Marquetry Vitrine on Chest
Collection NE10
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French Directoire Satinwood Secretaire Abattant with brass fluting and rosewood accents, early 19th century design.
French Directoire Satinwood Secretaire Abattant with brass details and multiple drawers, early 19th century antique furniture.
French Directoire Satinwood Secretaire Abattant
Nicholas Wells Antiques
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Pair of Mallett End Tables with hand-bevelled glass tops, mahogany borders, and polished brass legs and sides.
Pair of Mallett End Tables with two-tier glass tops, mahogany borders, and polished brass legs and sides.
Pair of Mallett End Tables
Collection CK30
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Rare early 19th-century Mughal rosewood and brass jewellery casket with mirror and velvet lining by Collection CK20
Rare early 19th-century Mughal rosewood jewellery casket with brass inlay and mirrors by Collection CK20.
RARE EARLY 19TH CENTURY MUGHAL EMPEROR AKBAR SHAH II ROSEWOOD & BRASS INLAID FITTED TRAVELLING JEWELLERY CASKET
Collection CK20
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Pair of Mid-Century Roman End Tables with burnished brass legs, lion’s paw feet, and black Belgian marble tops.
Pair of Mid-Century Roman End Tables with burnished brass legs, lion paw feet, and black Belgian marble tops.
Pair of Mid-Century Roman End Tables
Collection CK30
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Paul Sormani Exotic Amboyna Work Table with curved legs, ebony and brass details, and intricate wood veneer design.
Paul Sormani Exotic Amboyna Work Table top view showcasing rich Amboyna veneer with ebony and brass inlay details.
Paul Sormani Exotic Amboyna Work Table
Nicholas Wells Antiques
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