Week 12- English Renaissance, Neoclassic

 English Renaissance 

    The early English period was dated from 1550-1660 and was considered to be the age of oak. This early time period was named after the rulers of this time these included Tudor, Elizabethan, Jacobean, and Cromwellian. The middle of the English Renaissance was dated from 1660-1750 this was based on restoration, William and Mary, Queen Anne, and Early Georgian. The late renaissance was set from 1750-1830 these were based on Middle Georgian, Late Georgian, Regency, and Neoclassical. 

    The Early English Renaissance was the first indication of a change in style in ornament and then form, it was isolated from the continent. This time really developed for themselves and due to climate and materials it influenced the type of architecture majorly. There were many times in this period that the climate had an effect on the architecture. Gothic cathedrals had a shelter and the nave and side aisles. French doors were open directly into the church and windows were larger in England for more light and warmth. 

    During the Tudor style there was a large increase in the number of houses and lots of land was given to wealthy merchants and traders. The architecture in this period was associated with timber framed construction and marked the start of the renaissance. There was a large focus on churches, official buildings, and furnishing programs. In this period there were signs of luxury and comfort included specifically in the fireplace. The furniture in the Tudor style had box-like chairs, chests, beds, and trestle tables. There was often not very much furniture in this time, it was very sparse. 

    The Elizabethan period was the era of great wealth, there were many manor and country homes built going this period. this was also the time when the Shakespeare plays were at their heat. Inigo Jones introduced the renaissance architecture to England and his work relies of Italian renaissance architect, Palladio. One of Inigo Jones major projects was the Palladian style especially the Tulip staircase. This is in the Queen's house; the Tulip staircase is mainly white with blue decorations added to it. The Hardwick Hall is located in Derbyshire, England and was built by Robert Smythson. The interior was two stories high and has oak paneling eight to ten feet high. 

    Residential housing were smaller homes that were built outside the walls of castles, the simplest had one room and rooms would have been added with how much wealth they had. Elizabethan furniture was mostly made out of oak until walnut was introduced. The cupboard developed a series of enclosed shelves with doors on the front. Large and luxurious beds were popular for this time, one example being the Great Bed of Ware. Jacobean style interiors included plaster ceiling and paneling. The paneling tended to be painted white. The furniture from this period details were less heavy, they were carved, spiral turns, and upholstery. 

EXTRA LINKS 

Ten Minute English and British History #18 - The Late Tudors: Elizabeth and the Spanish Armada

English Renaissance Interiors

Characteristics of Renaissance Architecture / Renaissance Architectural History