Furniture Glossary of Terms
There are currently 13 terms in this directory beginning with the letter R.
ragging or rag-rolling
decorative painting technique in which a glaze is applied over a base color in an uneven manner to add depth and texture.
rail
horizontal bar of wood or metal supporting and tying two ends of a piece of furniture together. For example, on a bed the rails tie the headboard and footboard together and help support the mattress. The horizontal front of a sofa or loveseat may also be referred to as a rail.
rattan
the strong, yet pliable stem from a variety of climbing palm, in the genus calamus, used as framing material for wicker furniture.
refectory table
a long, narrow table with straight, heavy legs, originally used in monastic dining halls.
regency style
Historically 1811 - 1820. British neoclassical style contemporary with directorie and empire styles in France. Like its French counterparts, regency style looked to ancient Rome and Greece for inspiration in form and decorative motifs.
rococo
extremely ornate art, furniture and architecture style originating in early 18th century France. Common Rococo motifs include scrolls, foliage and animal motifs.
rolled arms
arms on upholstered seating that curve outward into a rounded form, extending horizontally beyond the supporting post.