A Timeless Guide to Antiques: Understanding the Eras of Design

The world of antiques is an invitation to connect with history—to hold in your hands a piece of the past that has been shaped by time, craftsmanship, and the people who came before us. As we prepare to unveil Well Found Vol. 1, our first carefully curated collection of storied European antiques, it feels like the perfect moment to explore the eras that have influenced the pieces we seek out and cherish.

From the grandeur of the 17th century to the restrained elegance of the early 20th, each period tells its own story. Understanding these design movements not only enriches your appreciation for antiques but also empowers you to collect with confidence, blending different styles to create a home that is layered, intentional, and enduring.

The Eras of Antiques: A Study in Craftsmanship and Style

Baroque (1600–1750): Ornate & Theatrical

The Baroque period was nothing if not dramatic. Originating in Italy and spreading throughout Europe, this era is marked by grand, sculptural furniture, elaborate carvings, and rich, gilded finishes. Think Louis XIV’s Versailles—opulent, symmetrical, and full of movement. Pieces from this time often feel weighty and commanding, making them ideal for those who love a touch of grandeur in their interiors.

Rococo (1730–1780): Playful & Romantic

Rococo softened the heaviness of Baroque with more fluid forms, delicate curves, and asymmetrical ornamentation. French furniture of this period, especially Louis XV pieces, features cabriole legs, painted finishes, and an overall sense of lightness. Ideal for adding a hint of whimsy, Rococo antiques balance elegance with a softer, more feminine energy.

Neoclassical (1760–1830): Refined & Architectural

As Europe turned its eyes back to the clean lines of ancient Greece and Rome, Neoclassicism emerged. Louis XVI chairs with fluted legs, English Adam-style mantels, and symmetrical inlays became the markers of this era. The transition from Rococo’s fluidity to Neoclassical’s structure makes it easy to layer pieces from both periods within a space.

Regency & Empire (1800–1830): Bold & Geometric

In England, the Regency period embraced darker woods, ebonized details, and strong silhouettes, while the French Empire style—championed by Napoleon—favored grandeur, Egyptian motifs, and gilded embellishments. These styles convey strength and elegance, ideal for creating a collected, masculine counterpoint in interiors.

Victorian (1837–1901): Ornate & Eclectic

The Victorian era, named for Queen Victoria’s long reign, was an era of revival styles—Gothic, Rococo, Renaissance—resulting in a layered, decorative aesthetic. Mass production allowed for an abundance of styles, but the most beloved Victorian antiques today are those that showcase fine craftsmanship, such as mahogany bookcases, carved walnut sideboards, and tufted seating.

Arts & Crafts (1880–1920): Honest & Handmade

A response to industrialization, the Arts & Crafts movement celebrated traditional craftsmanship, simplicity, and natural materials. Oak, hand-forged iron, and honest joinery define this era. Beyond furniture, the movement placed a strong emphasis on decorative arts—hand-blocked wallpapers, richly patterned textiles, and artisanal tilework all played a role in shaping interiors of the time. These elements, with their intricate yet organic designs, remain highly sought after today for their ability to bring warmth and character to a space.

(A personal favorite, along with the eras that follow—there’s something about the balance of craftsmanship, artistry, and evolving restraint that continues to resonate in modern interiors.)

Art Nouveau (1890–1910): Organic & Flowing

Art Nouveau took inspiration from nature, with curvilinear forms, floral motifs, and an emphasis on craftsmanship. It was as much a movement in fine arts as it was in furniture design, making it a wonderful period for those who appreciate artistic, sculptural details in their interiors.

Art Deco (1920–1940): Sleek & Glamorous

The roaring twenties ushered in the sleek glamour of Art Deco, characterized by geometric shapes, exotic woods, and metallic accents. This era feels decidedly modern even today, making it a striking complement to older antiques when used as a counterpoint in a space.

(Art Deco has seen a notable resurgence in recent years, with its bold forms, rich materials, and sense of refined luxury influencing contemporary interiors, furniture, and even architectural details. Its signature aesthetic—think the gilded elegance of The Great Gatsby, with its dramatic silhouettes and decadent finishes—continues to captivate designers and collectors alike. Its ability to bridge antique and modern aesthetics makes it a powerful design tool for those looking to create spaces that feel both timeless and fresh.)

Blending Eras: The Art of Juxtaposition

At Well by Design, we believe in mixing eras with intention. A heavily carved 17th-century console gains new relevance when paired with a sleek 1920s mirror. An 18th-century dining chair finds fresh life alongside a modern heirloom table. The beauty of collecting antiques lies in their ability to transcend time, creating homes that feel curated, storied, and deeply personal.

As we prepare to share Well Found Vol. 1, our approach remains the same: to source pieces that bring history into the present with elegance and authenticity. Whether you’re drawn to the grandeur of Baroque, the charm of Rococo, or the restraint of Neoclassicism, every era has something to offer the modern home.

Note: You may notice that Mid-Century Modern (MCM) is not included in this list. While incredibly influential, MCM is considered vintage rather than antique, as it falls within the mid-20th century and hasn’t yet reached the 100-year mark. That said, its clean lines and organic forms make it a natural complement to earlier antiques, reinforcing the idea that thoughtfully blending styles creates a space that is both timeless and deeply personal.

Stay tuned for more details on the upcoming collection, and in the meantime, we’d love to hear—what era of antiques speaks most to you?

— Lauren