Top 10 Georgian Classics in Miniature

As the Georgian period enjoyed a thriving economy, the home and its furnishings became the centre of attention for displaying wealth and taste. Top furniture designers of the time like Thomas Chippendale, Thomas Sheraton and George hepplewhite were on hand to help the discerning shopper spend thier money on the modern style and they produced catalogues of designs, called dictionaries or directories, to showcase their wares. We follow suit with our own directory of the Georgian must-haves for the 1/12th scale dolls house.

1 Chippendale Desk and Bookcase

Tall, multi-purpose furniture was valued in Georgian times because it provided the maximum storage for small rooms. As with all items of furniture, all three top designers had their own variations, but it is what Chippendale called his 'desk and bookcase' which seems to have been most popular. This miniaure version has been made by 'A Miniature Marvel', it is in mahogany finish and has glazed doors. Website: www.aminiaturemarvel.com

2 Tea urn

Tea became the national drink during the Georgian era and was so expensive that only the wealthiest of homes could have it. The lady of the house would prepare the tea, which was kept locked away in a tea caddy. The urn would be prepared at a special tea table and would hold the hot water with which she could make the tea. Cups would have no handles, and pots were very small. This miniature hand made metal tea urn is by Denise Smith. Website: www.handmademiniatures.yolasite.com

3 Hooded Chair

There seems to be some debate as to whether this iconic chair known as a porter's chair is intended for use by a porter or by the lady and gentleman of the house. The former would have his head sheilded from draughts, and the latter would have theirs sheltered from the heat of the fire. This hooded chair for your miniature doll house is by Lorraine's Miniatures. Website: www.lorrainesminiatures.com

4 Meissen Porcelain

Meissen was the watchword for quality porcelain in the Georgian home. Whilst everyone had a hankering for it, only certain wealthy homes actually had the money to own it. Figurines by moddler J.F. Kandler were the most sought after and were principally made for the banqueting table of the Royal court. Fine art sculptor Randall Zadar's miniature sculputures are just as eagerly sought after. Website: www.zadarstudios.com

5 Hepplewhite Chair

In keeping with the 19th century fashion for dainty furniture, George Hepplewhite's shield back chairs were light and elegant. The characterisic shield-shaped backs and square tapered legs were ideal for a reception or dining room. The walnut miniature carver chair is from A Miniature Marvel. Please see item 1 for the website.

6 Lustre

As its name suggests, the lustre was the king of chandeliers. This behemoth of lighting ingenuity packed as much detailing and as many candles as possible into one space, and was designed with high ceilings in mind. This miniature piece is made by lighting specialist J. Getzan and boasts more than 200 Swarovski crystals, two tiers of lights and 18 candle bulbs. Website: www.jgetzan.com

7 Sevres Dinner Service

Often taking years to amass an entire dinner set, Sevres was the name in fine dining and brought an air of the Continent into the English home. Its trademark coloured backgrounds (coloured grounds) and gilding meant it was very fashionable for the Georgian home. This hand painted set is made by Victoria Fasken, and is available from Karon Cunningham Miniatures. Website: www.karoncunningham.com

8 Chippendale Settee

When entertaining company, an upright posture and composed manner had to be maintained at all times. Chairs were designed with that in mind, and Chippendale's two-seater chair follows these rules. It has a square, lightly padded seat, and a cupid's bow back with ornate detailing. This one is available from The House of Dolls House Miniatures. Website: www.thehouseofdollsminiatures.com

9 Hepplewhite Pole Screen

The pole screen was found next to the fireplace in a reception room and was used to protect delicate complexions and heavy makeup from the heat of the fire. These screens either had painted designs or tapestry covers and were height adjustable. The crafty miniaturist can recreate the Hepplewhite pole screen with a kit from Nicola Mascall Miniatures. For her whole range of different screens, please go to www.nicolamascallminiatures.co.uk

10 Tillard Duchesse Brisee

A Duchesse Brisee was a kind of chaise longue which was created to fit to the shape of the human body for extra comfort. Early models were in fact made up of two tub-style chairs and a stool for extra versatility, but this soon became a single piece of furniture. The Duchesse Brisee was often found in the bedrooms and was worked on by an upholder, the upholsterer of the day, to add fine fabrics and padding. This 1/12th scale miniature version is by John J. Hodgson. Website: www.johnjhodgson.com

This feature is part of a series on the top most wanted items for your dolls house in every possible era. For the other features please click individually on the links below.

• Top 10 1940's Functional Design Classics
• Modern Design Classics Part 1
• Modern Design Classics Part 2
• Art Deco Design Classics Part 1
• Decorative Arts Design Classics Part 2
• Edwardian Design Classics
• Top Victorian Design Classics Part 1
• Victorian Design Classics Part 2
• Rococo Design Classics
• Top 10 Regency Design Classics
• Top 10 Tudor Design Classics
• Top 10 Gothic Desgin Classics