Hand-Painted Furniture History

Hand-painted furniture in America had its origins in folk art from each of the countries whose people eventually populated the New World. Because those practicing the art form were self-taught, the paintings were quite primitive or what is also often called naive. Today we find this style charming and provincial. Because of the lack of formal art training, stencils became a popular way for these painters to get the design symmetrical. Flowing swirls and less intricate designs were usually done freehand.

With the Colonies' freedom from England through the signing of the Declaration of Independence, paintings often displayed patriotic themes and became a singular expression of America's feedom. Through the industrial revolution in the mid 1800's and the advent of mass-produced items, this art form lost some of its luster, but found a renewal in the Arts and Craft movement of the 20th century when decorative painting on furniture and accessories again flourished.

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