Charlecote Antiques in Kansas City sells fine English antique furniture & objets d'art

Regency (1793 - 1830)

Historical --- A refined and interesting style, English Regency originated in England shortly before the Prince of Wales became Regent in 1811 and extended beyond his regency and through his reign, which ended in 1830. Its eclectic character fits well into an ear of prosperity and luxury when decorations of palaces set the styles. Principal English designers were Henry Hollas, Thomas Hope, George Smith and Charles Tatham. While in America Duncan Phyfe produced many pieces of Regency inspiration.

General Attributes --- English Regency was a return to classic principle of design, strongly influenced by a mixture of the Adam Brothers Classic with French, Italian, Chinese and Egyptian influences. It was essentially an archaeological revival in which antique material remains and the decorations were copied. It, to was a style of simplification and functionalism, a mingling of classic simplicity if outlines with oriental richness or decoration. Furniture pieces were scaled down to smaller, more intimate sizes, much of the furniture is painted black (white and ivory occasionally were used) and trimmed with extensive gilding. Curves are with veneering and carving and relief in classical, Egyptian and Chinese motifs usually gilded for emphasis. Mahogany is the favored wood but rosewood and satinwood were often used. The uses of wire grills are a distinguishing feature, brass being the primary metal. Chinese influence is reflected in bamboo trimmings while Egyptian figures included sphinxes, the winged sun disc and lion masks. Upholstery fabrics are damask, velvets and brocades.

Chairs --- Chairs have both straight and concave backs, ornamental fretwork, relief, carving and gilding. Legs are straight or splayed, without underbracing and occasionally spiral turned. Feet are a continuation of the legs with straight collars or banding, and an occasional use of lion paws, Upholstery is on most seating pieces.

Other Pieces --- Tables are often elaborately inlaid, lacquered, and gilded. Straight legs are on the larger pieces. China cabinets and bookcases have grillwork doors, columns and pilasters. Sofas are of classic outline, occasionally with dog or lion paw feet. Beds are very elaborate with curved headboards or fretwork inserts. Writing desks on high legs are very popular. Molding is used on tables and cabinet pieces.

Suggestions For Use --- This style goes well with Adam, Sheraton, Hepplewhite, Chinese Chippendale, Directories, French Empire, Biedermeier, Duncan Phyfe and American Empire.