Baroque 1620-1800, Style in the Age of Magnificence

Baroque style inspired stool

The fantastic V&A museum in London are hosting a great exhibition from the 4th of April until the 19th of July showcasing the grandeur of the Baroque style

The name of the exhibition: “Baroque 1620-1800, Style in the Age of Magnificence”.


Nowadays, Baroque is considered the first style to have a significant impact all over the world.

When talking of Baroque, people immediately think of architecture, art, music, sculpture, but somebody like me, crazy about interior design, also thinks about furniture.

In the 17th century, Baroque style finally saw the birth of refined furniture, more symmetrical, with smooth lines and exquisite details. Overall, furniture became more flowing and harmonious in design.

Baroque furniture had a heavy Asian influence due to the trading relations between several European countries – such as England and Portugal – and India as well as the Far East. That’s why, the predominant taste for “Oriental” elaboration made craftsmen across Europe imitate the Asian decorative techniques.

Italian Baroque furniture was elegantly carved, finished in gold leaf, decorated with cupids, shells, cherubs and foliage.
In France, many furniture items were lavishly covered by tortoiseshell and brass, creating intricate patterns. Gilded bronze was also used as ornament.

In England, new processes took over the techniques of the 16th century. Marquetry became a real art, creating lavish and intricate floral pattern n furniture surfaces.

Overall, Baroque style saw the birth of new forms of furniture, more practical and comfortable, such as chaises longues, chairs upholstered in velvet and silk, writing desks, etc…

I am visiting this amazing the exhibition at the V&A this Easter weekend, and hopefully a small part of the exhibition will be dedicated to Baroque furniture


But whether Baroque furniture has an important role I this exhibition or not, I am convinced it’s worth visiting!