Although used as a generic term to describe historical and period design, ‘vintage’ actually refers to the 1940s and 1950s. Vintage can be described as nostalgic, from a time most people can remember from the past. childhood or at least from their parents/grandparents. This style is not easy to define, since it did not match a bit. Postwar furniture from the ’40s and ’50s included family heirlooms, heirlooms, with a make-and-fix attitude. Thus, elements from many different eras were incorporated. Wrought iron furniture was often seen as it was passed down to the next generation from the industrial revolution and Victorian times.

influences

A massive trend for wrought iron furniture exploded in 1920s America thanks to designers like John B Salterini, Lee Woodward, and Joseph Leinfelder. Salterini was a big influence; a mid-century designer from New York who popularized wrought iron furniture. He was a craftsman who emigrated from Italy and from 1928 to 1953 he manufactured quality iron furniture for indoors and outdoors. This included highly decorative wine racks, French-inspired vanity stools, cocktail tables, loveseats, and chandeliers. These inevitable trends crossed the ocean to Britain, where elaborate iron furniture designs were seen in the homes of high society across the country.

the victorian era

All styles, from Rococo to Gothic, enjoyed a revival in the Victorian era. The best way to describe the decor of the period would be luxurious and opulent. Wrought iron furniture was extremely popular due to the fact that it could be “worked” into intricate and elaborate designs. The industrial revolution had allowed mass production of the material. Traditional craftsmen produced fabulously ornate designs that graced Victorian homes. Often referred to as a “heavy” decorating style, Victorian England adored wrought iron furniture. French-inspired curls, twists, and swirls were popular both within the home on mirrors, sconces, coat racks, and tables. An English country garden would not have been complete without traditional wrought iron garden chairs and benches.

Art nouveau

The Art Nouveau decorating style emerged in the 1890s with the Arts & Crafts movement. The ‘New Art’ was going to move away from the more traditional, artistic styles with curved lines and motifs influenced by nature. This also played a role in the popularity of wrought iron furniture, as curvy designs incorporating plants, birds, flowers, and vines were easy to create.

shabby-chic

This movement is best described as French country, although there are many different variations and interpretations. The term was not coined until the 1980s and is meant to mimic the look of old 18th century country houses. It is heavily influenced by old French styles. Rustic, aged wrought iron furniture is well suited to this decor.

Gothic

The Gothic style in interior decoration was originally inspired by medieval churches and architecture. He made a brief comeback in the late 19th century, popular because of his grandiose and dramatic style. When we think of Gothic architecture, we think of grand cathedrals, majesty, stained glass windows, intricate detail, and symbolism. Admirers of this style use detailed, dark wrought iron furniture to create magnificent Gothic interiors, including sconces, chandelier, intricate mirrors, and arched chairs.

Versatile wrought iron furniture can be used to recreate many vintage interior decorating styles. It does not matter if you are looking to create an elegant and romantic dining room or a rustic shabby-chic kitchen. Vintage wrought iron furniture and accessories can be used to stylize spaces from any era.