19th Century Decorative Arts

The 19th century was a time of significant innovation and change in the decorative arts, with new styles, techniques, and materials emerging throughout the century. Here are some of the key movements and trends that characterised the decorative arts in the 19th century:

1. Neoclassicism: This movement, which emerged in the late 18th century and continued into the early 19th century Regency, Empire, was characterised by a revival of classical forms and motifs. It was particularly popular in architecture, interior design, and decorative arts such as furniture and ceramics.
2. Gothic Revival: This movement, which emerged in the early 19th century, was characterised by a revival of medieval Gothic styles for example the houses of parliament, with an emphasis on ornate decoration, pointed arches, and intricate patterns. It was particularly popular in architecture and interior design.
3. Arts and Crafts: This movement, which emerged in the mid-19th century, was characterised by a return to traditional crafts and techniques, with an emphasis on simplicity, honesty, and beauty. It was particularly popular in furniture, textiles, and ceramics, and emphasised the importance of individual craftsmanship.
4. Art Nouveau: This movement, which emerged in the late 19th century, was characterized by sinuous, organic forms inspired by nature, as well as by new materials such as cast iron and glass. It was particularly popular in decorative arts such as furniture, glassware, and jewelry.

Throughout the 19th century, advances in technology and changes in social and cultural norms also influenced the decorative arts, leading to new materials, techniques, and styles. For example, the Industrial Revolution led to the development of new materials such as cast iron, and new techniques such as mass production, which had a profound impact on the decorative arts. The 19th century also saw a growing interest in design education, with the establishment of schools such as the Royal College of Art in London and the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris. Today, the legacy of these 19th-century movements and trends continues to influence the decorative arts.