Search

Ireland | Irish Furniture and Decorative Arts

Irish Elegance in Wood: The Golden Age of Furniture and Decorative Arts in 18th and 19th Century Ireland

The 18th and 19th centuries in Ireland were a period of remarkable elegance and sophistication in the realm of furniture and decorative arts, deeply influenced by both local traditions and wider European trends. This era, particularly in the grand country houses of Ireland, witnessed the flourishing of a distinctive style of craftsmanship and design, with Irish furniture gaining a reputation for its quality and beauty. A key factor in this development was Ireland’s strategic position as the first stop for boats carrying mahogany from South America, a circumstance that significantly impacted the quality of Irish mahogany furniture.

In the 18th century, during the Georgian era, named after the reigns of the British monarchs George I through George IV, Irish furniture and decorative arts were heavily influenced by the Georgian style, characterised by its symmetry, simplicity, and an understated elegance. This was a time when Dublin emerged as a hub of excellent craftsmanship. Renowned cabinetmakers like William Moore and Robert Strahan became famous for their high-quality mahogany pieces, which often featured intricate carving and robust designs, including the notable ball-and-claw foot design, lion masks, shell motifs, all hallmarks of Irish Georgian furniture. The grand country houses of Ireland, such as Castletown House and Carton House, were adorned with exquisite collections of furniture, silver, and glassware, reflecting the wealth and status of the Anglo-Irish aristocracy.

The 19th century brought new influences and styles to the fore. The Victorian era introduced more ornate and elaborate furniture styles, marked by heavier and darker pieces with elaborate carvings and plush upholstery. However, the early part of the 19th century was also influenced by the Regency style, which leaned towards neoclassical designs, featuring simpler lines and less ornamentation compared to the Victorian excesses. This century also saw a revival of various historical styles, including Gothic and Rococo, leading to an eclectic mix of designs in many Irish country houses, where older pieces were often blended with contemporary styles.

Despite the popularity of mahogany, there was also an increased use of local materials like Irish oak. Irish craftsmen continued to excel in producing high-quality furniture, often adapting and blending different styles to create unique and exquisite pieces. Towards the end of the 19th century, the Arts and Crafts movement, which emphasised hand craftsmanship and natural materials, began to influence Irish decorative arts, marking a departure from the mass-produced trends of the Victorian era.

In conclusion, the 18th and 19th centuries in Ireland were a golden age for furniture and decorative arts. The strategic geographic position of Ireland, particularly Cork as a primary port for South American mahogany, played a crucial role in the development of Irish furniture making. The grand country houses of Ireland not only served as homes for these magnificent pieces but also as a testament to the rich artistic and cultural heritage of Ireland during this period. The blend of local craftsmanship with European influences led to a unique style of Irish furniture and decorative arts, celebrated for its quality, elegance, and distinctive character.

Filters

StylesIcon Copy 5
Styles
OriginIcon Copy 5
Origin
PeriodIcon Copy 5
Period
PriceIcon Copy 5
Price Filter - slider
£1,900£56,000
MaterialIcon Copy 5
Materials Filter
TechniquesIcon Copy 5
Techniques Filter