The question is repeatedly asked, "What is so special about the 18th century that makes its wares so eagerly sought?"

The 18th century and the short periods on either side, roughly from 1685-1830, represent "The Golden Age" in the fields of furniture and decorative arts. That time period stands as one of the pinnacles of mankind's creations. Design in Europe, England and America, particularly in furniture, seemed suddenly to awaken from the post-medieval utilitarian forms, moving from joined and architecturally based furniture of the mid 1660's, to the grace and elegance of Queen Anne and Regence in a mere 50 years.   

18th century forms embody a purity of line and perfection of proportion not equaled before or since. The era saw four new design styles, or "periods":

Early Baroque, massive, with much Dutch influence
Late Baroque, sculptural and symmetrical, with strong curves and counter curves
Rococo, exhibiting great French influence, and ornamentation with sinuous curves and asymmetry
Neoclassical, with its restraint and reference to Greco-Roman and later Egyptian ornament and style.

Each "period" had exacting disciplines to be followed for the varied products, i.e. silver, ceramics, furniture, and the various associated decorative items. Each "period" rapidly followed another, as a reaction to, or improvement upon the previous style, reflecting politics, world commerce, and changing social structures. And very great artisans, such as Huguenot silversmiths Pierre Platel and Paul de Lamarie, cabinetmakers Thomas Chippendale, and later George Hepplewhite and Thomas Sheraton in England, and Andre-Charles Boulle, Jean-Francois Oeben, and Jean-Henri Riesener in France, are among just a few of the innovators setting the standards for those disciplines.

Even as phenomenal was the technical evolution that occurred. Each stylistic change involved developing – or discovering – new methods to produce their wares. The story of ceramics alone is one of trial, error, secrecy, greed, and royal power. In the case of Meissen, Augustus the Strong of Saxony, threatened the young alchemist Bottger with his life unless he found the secret to the Chinese porcelain that was being imported into Europe in the early 18th century. In furniture, new techniques, such as dovetails, veneers, intricate carving on hard woods, and strong glues were but a few of the developments. For instance, prior to late18th century introduction of the two-pedestal dining table, dining tables consisted of heavy refectory tables, or simple gate-leg and drop leaf tables, dragged to and from the wall for dinner or tea. There was no dining room, as we know it. Perhaps it could be said that the speed and quality of the advancements taking place during the 18th century can be compared to the 20th century advances in transportation, technology and communication.

Most 18th century pieces were hand crafted for the wealthier upper classes, and many approached as a piece of art. By 1750, the stage for Industrial Revolution was set, with the introduction of the steam engine in 1775, and the circular saw in 1780. By 1800, a large middle class had developed, and with money to spend. They, too, desired these wares that had been made for the wealthy in the previous century. The quickly resulting production for the masses, (German Biedermeier actually reflects that purpose in its name: bieder – made for, meier – a common name in Germany, or, meaning for the average man), and the 1830 introduction of the dowel for furniture construction, changed craftsmanship and proportions dramatically. Further, the first World's Fair took place in London in 1851 at the Crystal Palace, with all the Western world displaying beneath one roof. What followed were revivals of the previous styles (i.e., Rococo Revival, or Classical Revival), but with combination of styles, and changes in construction, line and proportion, often greatly compromising the previous purity of design. Finishing techniques changed the outward appearances of furniture. And transfer, developed by Worcester in 1756, replaced much of the 18th century hand painting of ceramics. This scene would dominate the 19th century European and American design from approximately the beginning of Queen Victoria's of England in 1837.  

Although beauty and purity are made throughout history, the 18th century holds an unequalled position. Its products are, and will continue to be prized and appreciate strongly in value. Currently, 18th century American and early English mahogany of the 1730-50's lead the value appreciation, leaving pre-sale auction estimates in the dust. Recent past years have seen French, and English Regency in the lead for appreciation. On the whole, good authentic pieces have held an average of 11.8% appreciation yearly since 1968. That is against Standard and Poor's 12.2%, including dividends. And an added dividend: the beauty and legacy they bring is seen, touched, and treasured daily. That is priceless.

 

Millicent Creech
M. Ford Creech Antiques