Adam
A 19th century style often included in the larger category of Federal. Adam style is characterized by a strong but restrained classical influence, somewhat heavier than contemporaries Hepplewhite and Sheraton.


American
A style developed in North America in the 17th century by the early American settlers with influences from around the world, but especially Europe.



Artisan
Artisan style is characterized by fine but not overly ornate workmanship that celebrates the maker`s community identity or ethnicity. In general, an artisan is a craftsperson who works by commission, taking pride in the quality of work but working to the commissioner`s specifications in terms of creative detail.



Art Deco
A style of the early 20th century that incorporated new materials and was characterized by bold, geometric forms.



Art Nouveau
Art Nouveau went against the Victorian mainstream of the time around the turn of the 20th century. This style is characterized by smoothly curving lines and subtle transitions through the form. It uses organic forms as inspiration for the entire design rather than simply the ornamentation. Typically, Art Nouveau lines begin a large S- shaped curve that ends in a rapid, whip like tail.



Arts and Crafts
The Arts and Crafts period between the 1860`s and 1939 was an answer to the Victorian style. Rather than drawing on ornamental styles from the past, it took on a rustic, craftsman look.



Asian
A general term referring to styles of the Far East. See Chinese and Japanese for two more specific examples of Asian style. Furniture with Asian sensibilities is popular as a subset of contemporary style.



Baroque
Between the 17th and early 18th century, Baroque style heavily influenced Western Europe. It originated in Italy and was representative of the Roman Catholic Church. Pieces are characterized by large twisted columns, broken pediments, and heavy moldings. The details are related to the entire piece and flow throughout the entire work rather than simply throughout one panel.



Chinese
Chinese furniture, ranging in time from the mid-1300s to the mid-1600s, typically features fine, simple designs made of choice hardwoods, beautifully finished, and unornamented except for careful mouldings and important hardware made of metals such as pewter, brass and copper. Common characteristics are unique joinery, lacquered wood pieces and inlays of mother of pearl, marble, ivory, and stones.



Colonial
A term referring to furniture styles in use in colonies around the world during the great colonial period from the 16th to 19th centuries. Colonial furniture is characterized by a strong "mother country" influence balanced by the use of local materials and adapted to local needs.



Contemporary
Based on the Modern style, except this style uses classical concepts for decoration and detail. Often furniture is made of rubber, metal, or concrete with long low profiles.



Cottage
Mass-produced furniture popular in the mid-19th century, originating in functional demands rather than in display. Usually painted white, pale lilac or blue and often enhanced with fruit and floral motifs or abstract curvilinear designs. Turned legs and split backs are common characteristics.


Country
A casual style that gained popularity in the 1980`s and remains popular today, often featuring nature and nostalgic motifs. The appearance of handcrafting is also important. "Distressing" is commonly seen.



DeStijl
A 20th century style originating in the Netherlands. As with other Dutch furniture of the period, DeStijl furniture is characteristically simple and clean-lined.



Directoire
Named for the Directorate of France after the French Revolution, Directoire style prevailed between 1793 and 1804. It is characterized by Etruscan-appearing forms and motifs, including mythical and stylized animal forms. Of note are mahogany dining tables of the period, which were for the first time decorative enough in themselves to be displayed without cloths.