Antique furniture is known for its intricate design and beautiful craftsmanship, and a crucial aspect of this is the furniture legs. From cabriole legs to claw and ball feet, there are many different types of furniture legs used in antique furniture, each with its own unique shape, history, and purpose. In this blog post, we will explore every type of antique furniture leg, giving you a comprehensive guide to the different shapes, histories, and uses of these legs. We will also delve into the English eras in which these legs were popular, helping you to better understand the context in which they were used. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting out, this blog post will give you a better understanding of the importance of furniture legs in antique furniture. So join us as we delve into the rich history and significance of furniture legs in the world of antiques.
Cabriole Legs
Ball and Claw Feet
These furniture legs are characterised by a decorative claw or talon at the bottom, which is typically accompanied by a carved ball or sphere. They were commonly used on chairs, tables, and chests, and were particularly popular during the Rococo period in the mid-18th century. Claw and ball feet serve the same purpose as cabriole legs, providing stability and support while also adding a decorative element to the piece of furniture. Claw and ball feet were popular during the Rococo era in England.
Tapered Legs
These legs are characterised by their narrow shape, which tapers towards the bottom. They were commonly used on tables, chairs, and desks, and were popular during the mid-18th century. The purpose of tapered legs is to provide stability and support, while also adding a sleek and modern touch to the piece of furniture. Tapered legs were popular during the Georgian and Victorian eras in England.
Fluted legs:
These legs are characterised by their grooved or fluted design, which adds a decorative touch to the piece of furniture. They were commonly used on tables, chairs, and desks, and were popular during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The purpose of fluted legs is to add a decorative element to the piece of furniture, while also providing stability and support. Fluted legs were popular during the Georgian and Victorian eras in England.
Reeded legs:
These legs are similar to fluted legs, but have a more subtle and refined design. They are characterised by their vertical grooves or reeds, which run up and down the length of the leg. Reeded legs were commonly used on tables, chairs, and desks, and were popular during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The purpose of reeded legs is to add a decorative touch to the piece of furniture, while also providing stability and support. Reeded legs were popular during the Georgian and Victorian eras in England.
Turned and carved legs:
These legs are characterised by their turned or carved design, which can include a variety of patterns and shapes. They were commonly used on tables, chairs, and desks, and were popular during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The purpose of turned and carved legs is to add a decorative element to the piece of furniture, while also providing stability and support. Turned and carved legs were popular during the Georgian and Victorian eras in England.
Splayed legs:
These legs are characterised by their flared or splayed design, which gives them a bold and dramatic appearance. They were commonly used on tables, chairs, and desks, and were popular during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The purpose of splayed legs is to provide stability and support, while also adding a decorative touch to the piece of furniture. Splayed legs were popular during the Georgian and Victorian eras in England.
Trumpet legs:
Spiral legs:
Also known as the "Barley Twist Leg," is a unique and decorative type of furniture leg with a rich history. Characterised by its twisted or turned design, the spiral leg adds a touch of whimsy and visual interest to the piece of furniture. This type of leg was originally popular during the late 17th and early 18th centuries, particularly during the Baroque and Rococo eras in England. However, it made a resurgence in popularity during the Victorian era, when it was used on a variety of furniture pieces. Whether used on a traditional antique piece or a more modern design, the spiral leg adds a unique and decorative touch to any piece of furniture.
Spider legs:
Saber legs:
Flemish scroll legs:
Marlborough legs:
In conclusion, the types of furniture legs used in English antique furniture are varied and diverse, each with its own unique history and purpose. From the iconic cabriole legs to the sleek and modern square legs, these furniture legs are an important aspect of English antique furniture and contribute to its beauty and
functionality. Whether they are used to provide stability and support or to add a decorative touch to the piece, furniture legs play a crucial role in the design and construction of antique furniture.
It is important to note that the types of furniture legs used in English antique furniture often varied depending on the time period and the style of the piece. For example, cabriole legs were popular during the early 18th century, while tapered square legs were more popular during the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
In addition to their functional and decorative purposes, furniture legs can also be used to identify the style and period of a piece of antique furniture. For example, cabriole legs are typically associated with the Rococo and Neoclassical styles, while square or tapered square legs are associated with the Georgian and Victorian styles. By understanding the different types of furniture legs and their associated styles, collectors and enthusiasts can better identify and appreciate the rich history and craftsmanship of English antique furniture.
In summary, the different types of furniture legs used in English antique furniture are cabriole legs, claw and ball feet, spiral or turned legs, tapered legs, fluted legs, reeded legs, and square or tapered square legs. Each of these legs has its own unique history and purpose, and they all contribute to the beauty and functionality of antique furniture. Whether you are a collector, an enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of antique furniture, understanding the different types of furniture legs can help you better appreciate and understand the rich history and craftsmanship of English antique furniture.