Queen Anne

A period of English and early American furniture design in the early to mid 18th Century. The style emphasized form over ornamentation and carving was minimal, often restrained to simple shell and acanthus shapes. The aesthetic instead relied on curved lines that accentuated woodgrains and materials (walnut was favored), and the cabriole leg exploded in popularity. Likewise, ogee curves, pediments, crest rails, and shapely furniture feet, legs, and arms were prevalent. This period also saw the advent of the tilt-top tea table. Though it was overtaken by the Chippendale style later in the century, elements of Queen Anne design remain popular in modern furniture design.