ENGLISH FURNITURE MATERIALS

English oak from the Pedunculate oak (Quercus robur) tree, is known as the "king of trees" in popular folklore in England and occupies a special place in English furniture history, being considered the most "English" of woods with usage going back to the earliest of times. Solid oak wood furniture is typified by being well figured and for its hardness and durability.

Oak was the principal material for furniture and panelling from Medieval & Gothic times through the Tudor, Elizabethan, Jacobean, Stuart, Commonwealth and Restoration periods. However, during the reign of William & Mary 1698 -1702 walnut became more popular together with veneers and the art of marquetry. This continued into Queen Anne’s reign and then mahogany, satinwood and rosewood were introduced early in George I reign and continued in popularity until the Victorian age when oak, once again, was more popular.