THE VICTORIAN PARLOR   (late 19th century)

    
    The rooms  we live in  reflect features of our society.  The Victorians were no different. This parlor shows the influence of the Industrial Revolution, class standing, and emphasis on the family. 
    Most of the furniture shown here is of the Renaissance Revival Style, circa 1850-1885.  It featured heavy straight lines, straight turned legs, and  ornamentation on the wood trim such as finials, acanthus leaves, rosettes, and vines. This furniture was machine-made and was originally covered with  black horsehair  upholstery. The corner walnut whatnots hold  typical Victorian clutter on every  available surface: mementos of family trips, hand painted china, and souvenirs.