Today’s style file is Neo-Classic style which has a wonderful historic context. Did you know that neo-classical architecture and style came to be because of the discovery of the city of Pompeii and Hercules?
Most architectural historians date the neo-classical period from 1730 – 1895, becoming popular when in the 1760s the antiquities of Pompeii showed that even the most classicizing interiors were based on the exterior architecture of the temples of Greece. The outside went inside with pedimented windows, handsome gilded mirrors, and fireplaces topped with facades. Neo-classical buildings like Jefferson’s Monticello had most of these features.
Strong symmetry, tall columns, and triangular pediments.
The new interiors sought to recreate an authentically Roman feel and were filled with sculpted low reliefs and wood carvings or painted cameos, carved medallions on decorative vases, and suspended on swags with laurel and ribbon around the grand rooms.
Quite grand, wouldn’t you say?
Of course, during this period there were several different styles of furniture, Queen Anne, Chippendale, Federal, Empire, Victorian, Louis XIV, French Restoration, and Eastlake just to name a few.
Many of the furniture designs of this period also sought to bring the outside in.
Especially notable are the tallboys with strong pediment tops and shell carvings.
