To make a decoration in the old style of the XV and the 16th, you do need furniture from the same period. For this, the old dressers Louis XV and Louis XVI are a must to succeed in your decoration.
However, you have to know the difference between each of these styles in order to have a perfect decoration that respects the rules and colors of each era. Find out more about the difference between these two old styles and the characteristics of each of them.
How to differentiate the Louis XV style from the Louis XVI style?
Often confused, the Louis XV style and the Luis XVI style have many differences than one might imagine.
The Louis XV style
Developed between the 1730s and 1760s, the Louis XV style was a real success during the 19th century. It is often described as feminine as it brings a touch of finesse to all its furniture. With a particular charm filled with tenderness and lightness, he invites himself as a real contradiction to his predecessor, the Louis XIV style, known for its power.
To recognize this style on a piece of furniture, you don't always have to rely on finesse. Several other factors can identify the Louis XV style as the form for example. In this style, there are small services, small dressers with two drawers, small tables and different kinds of seats.
However, there are 3 steps to recognize with much more conviction a louis XV style piece of furniture: wood carving, feminine style and ornamentation. In general, Louis XV-style furniture all have curved feet.
If you notice a piece of furniture with this feature and designed in a light style, chances are it is Louis XV furniture. In addition, it is necessary to check if the furniture exudes tenderness and softness. A piece of furniture that bears all these characteristics and also has a special bronze gold ornamentation is probably of the Louis XV style.
The Louis XVI style
The Louis XVI style is characterized by the absence of rock shapes present on Louis XV furniture. There are also very clear lines on these furniture that are influenced by the ancient style. The models of the most refined furniture of this period are designed in gilded wood and the royal models are walnut wax or lasking wood.
Today, many craftsmen make Louis XVI-style furniture while respecting its less demanding characteristics. On the other hand, they use very old manufacturing techniques to reproduce in every detail the structure of these furniture. To build much more prestigious furniture, some use solid beech woods.
For this style, the furniture has feet in a straight line. They remain faithful to the ancient style, with trampling with streaks dug at the wood level. Over time, each manufacturer to bring his personal touch to the furniture. Thus, some furniture is with straight feet and a concave or curved back, while others have a square back with arched feet. These furniture are perfectly decorated with patterns that are based on ancient styles such as denticles, triglyphs, grooves and acanthus leaves.
Features of an old dresser
An old dresser has special features with several styles, depending on the time and the manufacturer. In general, the old dressers are made of quality wood, very often made of solid wood.
While modern furniture is made of veneer, the antique dressers are distinguished by their particular furniture, which greatly improves their lifespan. In addition, a dresser is unique and is generally designed on demand. These are unique pieces of furniture that you certainly won't be able to find in another person' home. Finally, old dressers can be personalised. So you have the option to repaint and customize it as you please, after a discounted purchase in a flea market.
Moreover, the dressers do not only have special characteristics, there are also different styles, often classic and vintage. The classical style can bring together the Baroque Louis XV, the Louis XVI furniture with more straight shapes, the empire, and the Louis-Philippe having curved forms without ornamentation. As for the vintage style, it takes into account the furniture made at the end of the 20th century, specifically between the 1950s and 1980s.
Apart from the general style and characteristics, a chest of drawers is also known for its dimensions and the materials used for its manufacture. Old dressers can be found in different sizes. Generally designed to be imposing in size than contemporary dressers, an old dresser can have a depth of about 70 cm. Speaking of materials, wood obviously comes to mind, with old chests of drawers made of oak or mahogany. They can also be found in fruit wood or cherry tree depending on the style of the furniture.
Finally, it should be noted that the price of each dresser varies according to several criteria. The price variation is generally noted according to the style and time of manufacture of the furniture. The furniture of the Louis XV era is highly sought after, the veneer made of rosewood or mahogany can increase its value. The tomb dressers, which are opened by three curved drawers all faces in precious wood marquetry, are imposing and are worth several thousand euros.
Because it is a customizable piece of furniture, the price may also vary depending on the modifications made and the ornaments of the furniture. For a piece of furniture with a little sought-after style, you can find it at all prices. On the other hand, for a signed or allocated dresser, it will be necessary to provide a high budget, especially for possible restorations of the furniture. However, if the dresser is in perfect condition and signed, its price can amount to thousands of euros, regardless of the time of manufacture.
Where to buy a louis XV or Louis XVI-style dresser?
If you are looking for an old Louis XV-XVI style dresser, the best way to find one is to contact an antique dealer. These collectors are usually reachable in physics or online through a website. To reduce delivery costs and have the chance to see the furniture before purchase, it is advisable to identify in your area the stores likely to sell this type of furniture.
You can also search the internet using the keywords "Louis XV or Louis XVI style convenience" followed by your place of residence. The first results will probably be those of the stores near your area. From the website, you will have the opportunity to search for the dresser of your choice, place the order and receive it in a very short time. On the site the right corner, you will find offers from particular to buy a Louis XVI dresser - used XV. On the other hand, it is much better to go to the physical store in order to make a good choice.
Indeed, you have the opportunity to have the dresser authenticated by an expert of the domain in order to buy the furniture at its fair value. If you're a beginner, you can very quickly confuse an old piece of furniture with a new one and buy a dresser that you absolutely don't need. The expert checks the presence of the features listed above, checks the condition of the furniture and can even make an estimate of its purchase price. So you have a specific margin to use for negotiations. In most cases, an expert will be of great use to you, if you have trouble recognizing a furniture in the style of Louis XV or Louis XVI.
Our HTdeco store offers copies of beautiful dressers with golden bronzes at its best, a quiet purchase with home delivery.
