Whether you're new to the world of antiques or a connoisseur with a curated collection, Lolo's A to Z Glossary of French Antiques
furniture terms with photographs and illustrations is an essential tool that will help educate and enlighten you.
V
vaisselier: A hutch or china cabinet. A buffet deux corps used to store dishes. Comes from the French word "vaisselle," meaning dishes.
veilleuse: Initially referred to any night lamp. Derived from the French word veiller (to keep a night vigil). Eventually the word became used for any food or drink warmer intended for bedside use.
veneer: A very thin layer of material, usually wood, affixed to the surface of a piece of furniture for decorative effect.
veneering: Furniture-making technique which consists of affixing a thin layer or strips of fine wood to the surface of a piece of furniture, this usually of a coarser wood. Valuable woods such as mahogany, rosewood, walnut and satinwood were used to cover a cheaper carcass, often at the same time concealing construction detail. First used in ancient Egypt, and then in Classical Greece and Rome, but not again until the 17th century in the Netherlands.
vet: To subject to thorough examination or evaluation. With regard to antiques: to carefully study a piece to determine its period, style, material, quality, authenticity and design appeal.
vitrine: French term for a display cabinet with a glass front. Comes from the French word "vitre," meaning a glass pane.
vitruvian scroll: Repeating pattern resembling a series of "C" scrolls or waves. Of classical origin, it was commonly used on 18th century furniture.
volute: A spiral scroll-like ornament such as that used on an Ionic capital. From Italian voluta, from Latin volvere, to turn or roll.
volute foot: Outward scrolling foot popular on Baroque furniture.
19th Century French Louis XV Style
Walnut Vaisellier