Renaissance

The Renaissance is considered the revival interest in classical design, beginning in Italy during the 14th century and continuing to spread throughout Europe until the 17th century. Renaissance furniture design is simple in structure with a generous use of classical ornament, such as the acanthus leaf, animal forms, and pilasters. Renaissance furniture typically has moderate ornamentation and decoration consists mostly of wood carvings. Renaissance furniture is usually dark in color and common materials consist of walnut and chestnut. The canopy bed and marriage chest are two popular pieces of furniture produced during the Renaissance style.

Baroque

A style of architecture, art, music, and decoration which originated in Italy during the late 16th century and slowly spread throughout Europe culminating in Germany and South American in the 18th Century. Often contradictory, Baroque style is complex but is characterized by bold details, sweeping curves, sensuous drama, and heightened emotional states. Often the Baroque would be referred to as defying logic, departing from the establishment, and an exaggeration of proportions.