The legs of a piece of furniture are more than just functional supports; they are a significant element that contributes to its overall style and character. From the stately double scroll to the sleek tapered leg, furniture leg styles have evolved throughout history, reflecting changing tastes and design philosophies. Let’s embark on a visual journey through some of the most popular leg styles and explore their distinctive features and uses.

1600s & 1700s: The Baroque Era

• Double Scroll: This dramatic leg style, characterized by two prominent scrolls at the base, was popular during the Baroque period (1600-1750). It exudes a sense of grandeur and is often found on furniture like tables and chairs.
• Reversed Scroll: A variation of the double scroll, the reversed scroll leg features inward-facing scrolls, creating a more delicate and elegant look.
• Walnut Period: This style, popular in England during the late 17th century, features sturdy, turned legs with a distinctive bulbous form at the base.
• Turned: Turned legs, created using a lathe, offer a variety of shapes and patterns. They were popular throughout the 17th and 18th centuries and can be found on a wide range of furniture, from chairs and tables to chests of drawers.
• Double Twist: This leg style features two intertwined twists, creating a visually striking and dynamic effect. It was popular in the late 17th and early 18th centuries.
• Cabriole: The cabriole leg, with its graceful curve and elegant foot, is a hallmark of the Rococo style. It was particularly popular in the early 18th century and is often found on chairs, tables, and chests of drawers.

1700s & 1800s: The Georgian Era

• Straight: As the name suggests, this leg style is characterized by its simple, straight lines. It was popular during the Georgian period (1714-1830) and is often found on furniture with a more restrained and elegant aesthetic.
• Adam Style: Named after the renowned architect Robert Adam, this style features slender, tapered legs with delicate fluting or reeding. It was popular in the late 18th century and is often associated with Neoclassical design.
• Fluted: Fluted legs, adorned with vertical grooves, add a touch of elegance and sophistication. They were popular throughout the 18th century and can be found on a variety of furniture styles.
• Turned Fluted: Combining the turned and fluted techniques, this leg style features a turned shaft with fluted details, creating a visually interesting effect.
• Sheraton Tapered: The Sheraton style, named after the influential furniture designer Thomas Sheraton, is characterized by slender, tapered legs with reeded or fluted details. It was popular in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
• Mariborough: This style, popular in the late 18th century, features tapered legs with a distinctive curved foot.
• Tapered: Tapered legs, gradually narrowing from top to bottom, create a sense of lightness and elegance. They were popular throughout the 18th and 19th centuries and can be found on a wide range of furniture styles.
• Saber: The saber leg, with its distinctive S-shaped curve, was popular in the early 19th century. It adds a touch of drama and sophistication to furniture.
• Spade: The spade leg, with its distinctive spade-shaped foot, was popular in the early 19th century. It adds a touch of elegance and refinement to furniture.
• Reeded: Reeded legs, adorned with vertical ridges, add a touch of texture and visual interest. They were popular throughout the 19th century and can be found on a wide range of furniture styles.

Choosing the Right Leg Style

When selecting furniture, consider how the leg style contributes to the overall aesthetic. For example, a piece with cabriole legs will have a more formal and elegant look than one with straight legs. Think about the style of your home and the other furnishings in the room when choosing pieces with different leg styles.

Remember, furniture leg styles are not just historical artifacts; they are an integral part of the design language that shapes our homes. By understanding the evolution of these styles, you can appreciate the craftsmanship and artistry that went into creating these beautiful pieces.