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Gustavian period. Sweden, late 18th century Each distressed and heavily foxed mirror plate framed by a carved and gilded guilloche motif. The tops centred on a neo-classical urn with swags dropping to each edge and the bases with acanthus leaf detail. The gilding worn. One plate probably an old replacement.
The Gustavian style has become almost synonymous with 'Swedishness', and much of the functionalism and simplicity in Sweden's 20th century ethos of restraint can be traced back to Gustavian influences.
If the Rococo was vegetative, then the Gustavian style was architectural; based on the ideals of antiquity. The curved lines of the Rococo were straightened out and silhouettes became symmetrical, with rectangles and ovals being particularly popular.
