Renaissance Revival is the nineteenth-century style in architecture, furniture and the decorative arts that drew its inspiration from the Renaissance art of fifteenth- and sixteenth-century Italy, France and northern Europe. It was one of several historic revival styles that flourished alongside the Gothic Revival during the Victorian era.
In Britain, the style appeared in architecture in the form of Italianate villas and Italian palazzo-inspired clubs and public buildings, and it influenced the design of furniture, metalwork, ceramics and interiors from the mid-century onwards. Renaissance Revival furniture is typically heavy and architectural, in carved walnut, oak or ebonised wood, with columns, pilasters, pediments, masks, cartouches, strapwork, grotesques and figures. Cabinets, sideboards, bookcases and carved chairs were popular forms, often made for display at the great international exhibitions. In France the style is associated with the Henri II revival, while American makers produced a distinctive version in the 1860s and 1870s. Related English styles include the Elizabethan and Jacobean revivals. Collectors look for quality of carving, good timber and original finishes, as heavily stained or later embellished pieces are less desirable. Fine Renaissance Revival pieces bring a strong sculptural presence to large rooms, halls and libraries.
