In the 17th century, European design leaned toward exaggeration, and over-emphasized brilliance. The movement was a natural consequence of the increasingly ornamental Renaissance style. The spreading Renaissance carried this free manner everywhere, and for two centuries, most European art was Baroque.
Motion is the essence of Baroque - large curves, fantastic and irregular - twisted columns, broken pediments, and oversized moldings. Everything was calculated to strike the eye. Baroque is a masculine style, while its feminine counterpart, Rococo, came in the 18th century substituting prettiness and charm for Baroque magnificence.*
Notice the curves and carved ornamentation in this overscaled, Baroque mirror from La Barge. Height is 62", so this mirror makes a grand statement in a dining room over a sideboard or in a large entry way.
A Grecian crackled gold finish and rub-through set this mirror apart.
Another overscaled Baroque mirror has lots of twists and turns and attention to detail. This one, too, is hand carved, antique gold finished, and with red umber undertones - gorgeous. It is 87" tall.
An over-mantel mirror, also sports swirls and flourishes and has an antique gold metal leaf finish.
Now after seeing all the curves in the Baroque mirrors, you can certainly recognize that Baroque is the style of this pedestal with antique gilded gold finish and stone top. It is perfect for holding a plant or vase, and a pair would look great flanking a doorway.
Each of these can add eclectic interest to a room that is modern and sleek where a statement piece is needed to shake things up a bit.
If you ever feel the need to "Go for Baroque," look for classic pieces that stand the test of time.
*Information taken from the Encyclopedia of Furniture, Joseph Aronson.
La Barge... a reflection of all that you are. www.labargeinc.com
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