Rococo Revival: The 19th Century’s Love Affair with 18th Century Opulence
- Ktz Antique Adventures
- Mar 26
- 2 min read
Introduction: When the Victorians Rediscovered the Rococo
The Rococo Revival (1835–1870) was one of the most extravagant design movements of the 19th century—a whimsical reimagining of 18th century French courtly style filtered through Victorian sensibilities.
From gilt-covered furniture to porcelain dripping with flowers, this was maximalism at its most delightful.
In this guide, we’ll explore:
✔ How the Rococo Revival began
✔ Its key characteristics in decorative arts
✔ Most collectible Rococo Revival pieces today
✔ How to distinguish it from original Rococo
Origins: Why the 19th Century Fell for Rococo Again
1. The Exhaustion of Neoclassicism
After decades of stern Greek and Roman designs, the 1830s saw a craving for playfulness and romance -- exactly what the original Rococo (1730–1760) offered.
2. A Royal Spark
King Louis-Philippe of France (r. 1830–1848) redecorated Versailles’ private rooms in Rococo style
Queen Victoria furnished her private seaside home, Osborne House, with Revival pieces
3. The Industrial Revolution’s Paradox
New manufacturing techniques allowed mass-production of "handcrafted" ornament—making Rococo flourishes available to the rising middle class.
Hallmarks of Rococo Revival Design
1. Furniture
C-scrolls and S-curves in chair legs
Asymmetrical cartouches (shield shapes)
Natural motifs: Seashells, vines, flowers
Giltwood or rosewood with ormolu mounts
Iconic Maker: François Linke (French, 1855–1946)
2. Porcelain
Meissen revived its 18th century floral patterns
Minton created new "Rococo" shapes with raised gilt
Sèvres reissued Madame de Pompadour’s designs
Most Collectible: Minton’s "Pâte-sur-Pâte" vases
3. Silver
Repoussé work (raised metal decoration)
Cast figurative handles (nymphs, cherubs)
Mirror plateaus with rocaille borders
Top Silversmith: Elkington & Co.
Rococo Revival vs. Original Rococo: Spot the Difference
Feature | 18th Century Rococo | 19th Century Revival |
Materials | Solid bronze mounts | Gilt over cheaper metals |
Scale | Intimate, delicate | Larger, more robust |
Colors | Pastels (pink, mint) | Richer tones (burgundy, navy) |
Florals | Single hand-painted blooms | Clusters of molded flowers |
Tip: Revival pieces often have maker’s marks absent on originals.
Most Valuable Rococo Revival Pieces Today
1. French Giltwood Mirrors (1840s)
$5,000-50,000 at auction
Look for: Rock crystal drops, original mercury glass
2. Minton Majolica Garden Seats (1860s)
$8,000-30,000 per pair
Most prized: Rare color glazes (turquoise, purple)
3. Meissen "Swan Service" Replicas (1850s)
$15,000+ for a tureen
Johann Joachim Kändler’s 1737 design, reissued
Where to Find Rococo Revival Today
Paris Flea Markets (Marché aux Puces – stalls 120–130)
London Auction Houses (Bonhams Knightsbridge)
New York Galleries (Kentshire, Carlton Hobbs)
Why Collect Rococo Revival?
✔ More affordable than 18th century originals
✔ Sturdier for actual use (thicker porcelain, reinforced gilt)
✔ Documented history (many pieces have provenance)
Final Thought: Joyful Excess
The Rococo Revival reminds us that decorative arts should delight. In our minimalist age, these exuberant pieces offer a welcome dose of unapologetic beauty.
Do you own any Rococo Revival pieces? Share photos below!