Victorian and Historical Revivals and Reform Movements

 Victorian and Historical Revivals and Reform Movements: Chapters 15 and 16

Chapter 15 – Historical Revivals

Within chapter 15 of our textbook, History of Furniture: A Global View by Mark Hinchman, the topic of Gothic architecture in specific parts of the world and certain architects and designers who contributed to the Gothic Revival was one of strong debate. Similarly, the Victorian era consisted of strong debate in regard to the risk being taken within both architecture and the interior of these spaces.

Gothic Revival in Relation to the Victorian Era

Arguably one of the biggest influences of Gothic architecture was during the reign of Queen Victoria (1819-1901) where the use of ornamentation increased exponentially. A publisher, John Ruskin, believed that ornamentation as the vital component that defines the difference in architecture between mere buildings. He understood the idea that good design was “moral and related to piety and rectitude” and best expressed through Gothic forms.

From South Africa to the United States, Gothic architecture spread throughout the world. Richard Upjohn, an architect, designer, and publisher, “combined his knowledge of English Gothic with the New England vernacular” which in turn created a strand of American Gothic style(s). He enhanced the perception of an architect as both honorable and professional. He saw architects as people who should be respected and held to high esteem for their knowledge and abilities. In addition, he played a huge role in founding the American Institute of Architects in 1857 and was the first president within the now national organization.

Chapter 16 – Reform Movements: Arts and Crafts

The Arts and Crafts Movement began in England but was just as popular in the United States. Begun by William Morris, a graduate from Oxford University fascinated by medieval architecture, the movement was a reaction against the Industrial Revolution. Eight characteristics of arts and crafts came from it which included completely hand-made items, visible wood joists, Gothic designs (based on medieval designs), predominate wood oak as opposed to mahogany, honest and simple designs, heavy furniture, large exposed hinges, and heavily influenced by Shaker furniture.

A well-known name associated with this movement is Philip Webb who worked for Morris and designed the Morris chair. This chair was of simple construction with a solid wood frame, loose cushions, and heavily copied. Most of his pieces were done in Medieval designs with his most famous being the chair. It was one of the biggest, if not the biggest, symbols of the arts and crafts movement. It was adjustable, reclined, made of leather and velvet, and named after Morris himself; overall, the chair was very utilitarian.