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William and Mary

In the William and Mary style ornaments are rather heavy and of Dutch taste. Double hooding, of the ogee type, was common. The carving was bold, chiefly floral; turnery was complicated, noticeable for the bold rings, the reversed cups, and the spirals. Veneer was freely used, “oystering” being in great favour. Marquetry was stiff; often in monochrome, as with the geometrical, shell, and wheel patterns, but dark-hued woods were also used for the floral designs, which were rather open and formal. Lacquering was in favour and usually bright. Painting was formal and dark in tone, as was most colouring, though relieved by abundant gilding. Among the motifs we find shells, the acanthus leaf; flowers, fruits, and scrolls. Lacquer was largely used and decorated in the” Oriental” taste. These “Oriental” (Chinese, Japanese, and Indian) designs we find transferred to walls and ceilings, the patterns including landscapes, architectural features, figures, birds, and flowers. Some of the wallpapers and panels used were imported; others were imitated with Occidental additions.