Antique Wardrobes
Wardrobes have been a convenient storage solution for centuries. An iconic item of furniture, the wardrobe makes a great addition to a bedroom and can add different dimensions of height to a room. A standalone piece can be a real statement item of furniture. A wardrobe is both functional and practical, whilst being full of character and adding an element of charm from the past to a room.
Wardrobes are very similar to an armoire. An armoire being the French word used to describe a standing closet that stores primarily clothing but also a range of materials and household goods. An armoire is generally larger than a wardrobe and more detailed in its design.
History of the wardrobe
For a period of time the word wardrobe referred to a room or apartment, as opposed to a piece of furniture-mainly used by wealthy people who needed more room for their extravagant clothing. The word wardrobe was also used in replacement for the word lavatory, by Geoffrey Chaucer. It was previously known as a press for hanging and laying out clothes, although by the 17th century the word wardrobe became more widely used to describe a standalone cupboard. In the 19th century mirrors were beginning to be attached to wardrobes, namely on the outside doors. As people acquired more clothing the use of wardrobes became custom in the home, mainly in the bedroom.
Styles of Wardrobe
Wardrobes can significantly impact on the interior of a bedroom dependant on the style and design. Usually made from solid wood, they vary in their designs, from the more simplistic shaker styles to the elaborate wardrobes with fixtures such as brass, glass panels, intricate carvings and expensive ebony details. There are notable features that you can identify when searching for an antique wardrobe from a particular period as outlined below.
Georgian Wardrobes
Georgian wardrobes were made between 1714 and 1837, a classic design, their features include breakfront dentil cornices, fluted pilasters and panelled doors. Often simple in design but made from high quality wood such as mahogany, they are highly desired by collectors.
Victorian and Edwardian Wardrobes
There are many similarities in the features of wardrobes from the Victorian and Edwardian periods, they are often large with carved woodwork, ornate, intricate and decorative designs. Made largely from oak, mahogany and pine, this period saw the inclusion of a mirror on the front of one of the wardrobe doors, often the central door.
Art Deco Wardrobes
Art Deco Wardrobes were produced during the 1920’s and the 1930’s, often made from burr walnut, highly polished or lacquered wood. They are often curved and streamlined in appearance, occasionally with a taller middle door with the adjoining doors slightly lower. Art Deco wardrobes can be recognised by their use of prominent lines. Pieces by Harry and Lou Epstein are particularly notable from this period.
Antique wardrobes are stylish crafted items of furniture and come in a variety of styles and sizes. Wardrobes are often hardwearing, made from solid hardwoods, such as oak, mahogany, rosewood and walnut, although they may be made from softwood. It is worthy of note that hardwood antique wardrobes are likely to be more valuable and longer lasting, meaning the antique wardrobe can be passed down through the generations.
