One constant of the Nineteenth century is the revival of historical styles, seen both in buildings and their interiors. This interest came into full flower around mid century and alongside Greek and Egyptian styles, revival styles included Renaissance, Elizabethan, Rococo and Gothic revival. Of all, perhaps the Gothic revival style is one of the easiest to identify and is most evident in the tall, elaborately decorated backs of chairs and the ecclesiastical references found in tables, chairs, tiles amongst other forms. Perhaps because this revival style was so strong a statement, (too fashionable?) there are fewer extant Gothic pieces compared to other revival styles. Nineteenth century eclecticism meant that the house interior could contain several different styles all at once, often directed by the many pattern and style books printed in vast numbers from mid century. Because of the scale and high style of the Gothic Revival pieces, Gothic Revival furniture pieces were often found in halls, libraries and dining rooms. By 1880, the Gothic style was reduced down to a few vaguely ecclesiastical motifs, occasionally found in decorative carvings for libraries and halls and in some public buildings.
Gothic Library, Design by: Frederick Clarke Withers (American (born England), 1859, walnut, oak and pine. The Metropolitan Museum, New York.
Cruet Frame, Design by: George B. Foster (American, 1810–1881), Silver, MFA, Boston, Massachusetts.
Armchair, Maker: John and Joseph W. Meeks (active ca. 1836–59) Date: 1850, Mahogany. The Metropolitan Museum, New York.