Victorian Style

An essential part of Victorian style is the complexity of the designs.  The words “simple” or “plain” are unusable in describing objects or interiors of the last half of the 19th century.  In the photos seen here, the Victorian Dining Room display shows the variety of objects, patterned wallpaper, lace curtains, and elaborately ornamented furniture typical of the period.  The chandelier, or “gasolier” as they were called, is a combination gas and electric fixture.

In another photo, the mahogany desk is undoubtedly the museum’s most valuable piece.  Its surface is covered with elaborate hand-carved ornament.  The handles to the
drawer are in the shape of a monster’s face with an elaborate handlebar moustache.  It is necessary to put one’s hand in the creature’s mouth to open the drawer.
 
 

 

In a third picture, Assistant Curator Susie Richter displays a Victorian dress on a stand
while wearing a hat of the period.  Many of our misconceptions about Victorian color preferences come from viewing old black and white photographs.  The dress seen here dispels the notion of staid Victorians in black silk.
 
 

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Updated July 6,, 2002