19th Century Antique Furniture Leg Styles
Antique furniture has always been a popular choice for interior decoration. Furniture pieces from the 19th century, in particular, are highly sought after due to their unique designs and craftsmanship. One of the defining features of antique furniture from this period is the variety of leg styles used.
1. Cabriole Legs
Cabriole legs are one of the most recognizable leg styles from the 19th century. They are characterized by an S-shaped curve that curves outwards at the top and inwards at the bottom. This style was popularized in the Queen Anne and Chippendale periods and was commonly used in chairs, tables, and dressers.
2. Tapered Legs
Tapered legs are another popular style from the 19th century. These legs have a gradual slope that narrows towards the bottom, providing a sleek and elegant look. This style was commonly used in chairs, tables, and cabinets during the Arts and Crafts period.
3. Turned Legs
Turned legs are a classic style that has been used for centuries. These legs are created by turning a piece of wood on a lathe to create a decorative shape. This style was commonly used in chairs, tables, and bed frames during the Victorian era.
4. Ball and Claw Legs
Ball and claw legs are a distinctive style that features a ball at the foot of the leg, with claw-like talons gripping the ball. This style was popularized in the Chippendale period and was commonly used in chairs, tables, and cabinets.
5. Bun Feet
Bun feet are a simple yet elegant style that features a rounded foot at the base of the leg. This style was commonly used in chairs, tables, and cabinets during the Victorian era.
6. Fluted Legs
Fluted legs are a decorative style that features vertical grooves carved into the leg. This style was commonly used in chairs, tables, and cabinets during the Neoclassical period.
7. Saber Legs
Saber legs are a distinctive style that features a curved leg that sweeps outwards at the bottom. This style was popularized in the Empire period and was commonly used in chairs, tables, and cabinets.
8. Square Tapered Legs
Square tapered legs are a simple yet elegant style that features a square leg that tapers towards the bottom. This style was commonly used in chairs, tables, and cabinets during the Arts and Crafts period.
9. Reeded Legs
Reeded legs are a decorative style that features horizontal grooves carved into the leg. This style was commonly used in chairs, tables, and cabinets during the Empire period.
10. Paw Feet
Paw feet are a distinctive style that features a foot that resembles an animal's paw. This style was popularized in the Chippendale period and was commonly used in chairs, tables, and cabinets.
11. Bracket Feet
Bracket feet are a simple yet elegant style that features a foot that is shaped like a bracket. This style was commonly used in cabinets and dressers during the Victorian era.
12. Hoof Feet
Hoof feet are a distinctive style that features a foot that resembles an animal's hoof. This style was popularized in the Regency period and was commonly used in chairs, tables, and cabinets.
13. Splayed Legs
Splayed legs are a simple yet elegant style that features legs that angle outwards from the center of the piece. This style was commonly used in chairs, tables, and cabinets during the Arts and Crafts period.
14. X-Shaped Legs
X-shaped legs are a distinctive style that features legs that cross over each other to form an X-shape. This style was commonly used in chairs and benches during the Arts and Crafts period.
15. Bamboo Legs
Bamboo legs are a decorative style that features legs that are designed to look like bamboo stalks. This style was commonly used in chairs, tables, and cabinets during the Victorian era.
16. Cylindrical Legs
Cylindrical legs are a simple yet elegant style that features legs that are shaped like cylinders. This style was commonly used in chairs, tables, and cabinets during the Art Nouveau period.
17. Spindle Legs
Spindle legs are a classic style that features legs that are made up of a series of thin spindles. This style was commonly used in chairs, tables, and bed frames during the Victorian era.
18. Serpentine Legs
Serpentine legs are a decorative style that features legs that curve in a serpentine shape. This style was popularized in the Rococo period and was commonly used in chairs, tables, and cabinets.
19. Lion's Paw Feet
Lion's paw feet are a distinctive style that features a foot that resembles a lion's paw. This style was commonly used in chairs, tables, and cabinets during the Empire period.
In conclusion, the variety of leg styles used in 19th century antique furniture is a testament to the creativity and skill of the craftsmen of the time. Each style adds a unique touch to the piece and enhances its overall aesthetic appeal.
