What is federal style furniture?

Federal style furniture was popular in America from approximately 1780 to 1820, coinciding with the Federal period of American history. This style of furniture was influenced by the neoclassical designs of the late 18th century, and often featured intricate details, bold symmetrical lines, and classical motifs like urns, swags, and rosettes.

Key characteristics of Federal style furniture include:

1. Symmetry: Federal style furniture typically features symmetrical designs, with matching elements on either side of a central axis.

2. Straight lines: Furniture in the Federal style tends to have clean, straight lines, with minimal ornamentation.

3. Inlay and marquetry: Federal style furniture often features delicate inlay work, using veneers of contrasting woods to create intricate designs.

4. Leg styles: Common leg styles in Federal furniture include tapered legs, turned legs, and reeded legs.

5. Materials: Mahogany, cherry, and maple were commonly used in Federal style furniture, with lighter woods often accented by darker details.

Federal style furniture can be found in a variety of forms, including chairs, tables, desks, cabinets, and beds. Pieces from this period are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts of early American design.