Victorian Home Decor
The Ultimate Victorian Home Decor - Original Fine Art
What is Victorian Home Decor?
Victorian home decor, an exquisite style that emerged during the reign of Queen Victoria from 1837 to 1901, encapsulates the grandeur and opulence of the Victorian era. This decor style is characterized by its intricate attention to detail and an embrace of ornate, elaborate designs. Victorian interiors typically feature rich, deep color palettes, combining dark reds, greens, blues, and purples, often used in lush fabrics like velvet and silk. The furniture in Victorian homes is heavy and made from dark, carved wood, often featuring intricate floral patterns and elaborate ornamentation. Walls are frequently adorned with ornamental wallpapers, often floral or damask patterns, and the floors are covered with Persian or Oriental rugs. Accessories play a crucial role in Victorian decor, with rooms often decorated with an abundance of antiques, candle holders, embroidered pillows, and paintings. The overall aesthetic of Victorian home decor is one of abundance and sensory richness, reflecting the complex social and cultural attitudes of the time.
- 34 years experience – helping you find the perfect painting
- Decorating golden rule – live with what you love
- What catches your eye?
Examples of unique Victorian original fine art for sale.
Victorian Home Decor
Victorian home decor refers to the style of interior design popular during the Victorian timeframe of 1837 to 1901. In her book “The Victorian Home”, author Ellen M. Plante states: “Victorians carefully designed their homes to create a look of comfort and opulence. Rare. Beautiful. Enchanting. Stunning 19th and early 20th century original fine art can complement the color, pattern, texture and design of your historic home for the next level of self-expression. Victorian home décor captures a bit of the wonderful nostalgia of the past by incorporating carefully selected original Victorian fine art. When buying original 19th and early 20th century fine art, the last thing you should worry about is whether it will match your draperies or clash with your wallpaper. Contrasts enhance. If an original Victorian painting catches your eye, it is silently speaking to you. You do not have to “know” fine art, be a member of a special “club”, or require an “expert” to tell you it is a “great” painting. You may be drawn not only to the subject but also to the artist’s palette, in other words, the colors that the artist mixed and used to create the tonal aspects of the painting (how it makes you “feel”). Your eyes can detect subtle variations in color and you and the Victorian artist love the same color palette – you have now developed a rapport with the artist that spans the century. You can see the benefit of escaping to another era; for however brief; to unwind from, forget for a moment, the stressors of daily life. Adding a landscape, marine, still-life, genre, historic, animal-theme, sporting-art, or sculpture to your Victorian home décor are all complementary. Co-mingling old with new – how absolutely delightful. Capture a bit of yourself and your legacy while enhancing the atmosphere of your home with the acquisition of original Victorian fine art. The mere act of looking, comparing and selecting the perfect painting is in itself a mental catharsis, and the value of original Victorian fine art is a better deal than doctor’s bills. Victorian home decor is as fitting today as it was over a century ago. Much like the Victorians did, we are today returning to our homes to seek comfort, beauty, and refuge from a fast-paced world. Today, we are discovering what the Victorians knew all along – Decorating’s golden rule: Live with what you love.
A report by Grand View Research on Home Décor Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis states that the global home décor market size was valued at 663.1 billion dollars in 2018. The report indicated: “The product demand is fueled by customer preferences for fancy and premium home décor products that provide a ravishing experience for the visitors. These fancy and premium products help in providing a spiritual and aesthetic pleasure, which also adds to the sophistication of consumers living in the house.” The report talks about furniture, wall and floor treatments, window dressing, and other mass-produced decorative products, but the ultimate “fancy and premium home décor products that provide a ravishing experience” (especially in a historic home) is original 19th and early 20th century fine art!
Victorian Style Decor Paintings
There’s no comparison between a modern giclee and original Victorian fine art. Absolutely brilliant original Victorian fine art makes all others look like cheap posters (which they are!).
A rare one-of-a-kind original Victorian style décor painting is in a class by itself. It is a real conversation starter, when properly displayed.
Realistic Victorian style décor paintings are just as popular now as they were over a century ago. The realistic Victorian style décor paintings owe some of their remarkable precision to their worthy forebears, the Dutch and Flemish naturalists of the 17th century. Realistic Victorian style décor paintings spread throughout Europe and great American artists stated to arrive in France in the late 1860’s. These renowned American Victorian artists were deeply impressed by the work of the French Barbizon painters, as well as by Corot and Courbet.
Victorian Bedroom Ideas
In her book titled “The Victorian Home”, Ellen M. Plante states: “Private spaces devoted to rest and relaxation, Victorian bedrooms are today viewed as unabashedly romantic retreats. In appraising the subtle charm of the old-fashioned boudoir, we treasure the cozy fireplaces, large inviting beds, massive dressers with elegant mirrors and marble-tops, sundry grooming items, sentimental photographs, and other cherished possessions. When you display original art that you love, in your Victorian bedroom, it will enchant you each time you enter your chamber. A quote from Anatole France states – “In art as in love, instinct is enough.” Your Victorian bedroom is a special place and you should surround yourself in the ultimate decorating treasure – original Victorian fine art that you love.
Plante further indicates: “Since we derive so much pleasure and comfort from surrounding ourselves with the things we truly love, most collectors are quite passionate about the items of their interest. Accessorize your bedroom to please yourself.”
Living Room Ideas Victorian Painting
Stunning. Gorgeous. Luxurious. Today’s living room was yesteryears legendary parlor. Plante writes: “The Victorian parlor – the design masterpiece of the nineteenth-century home – conveyed social standing and an appreciation of culture. In the Victorian era, special items were called for to accessorize the proper Victorian parlor. Ideas for today’s living room obviously include “oil paintings”, which Plante states where “everywhere apparent” in Victorian home décor. She adds: “A study in contrasts, the Victorian parlor provided an opportunity for the family to show itself to advantage and at the same time was a canvas on which the free spirit held in check by polite society could paint. Liberties could be taken in decorating the parlor; self-expression was evident.” Art is smart. Purchase what you love. As Albert Einstein said: “Personally, I experience the greatest degree of pleasure in having contact with works of art. They furnish me with happy feelings of an intensity that I cannot derive from other sources.”
Limited only by the scope of one’s imagination, today’s Victorian home owners have the means of creating Victorian painting ideas for today’s living room that are truly unique. As Plante puts it: “A style evoking romanticism, daring, personality, excitement, and charm is ours for the taking – in greater or lesser degrees. More than simply an indication of wealth, these late Victorian parlors embraced the adventurous, the aesthetic, the intellectual, the hopelessly romantic, and the sophisticated all at the same time.”
Decorate Victorian House With Art
The late Victorian period (around 1870 to 1900) was a time of great excitement, social change, and material wealth. New heights and experiences to decorate a Victorian house were achieved. No corner of the Victorian house was left bare and no wall was unadorned. When describing the late period Victorian house, Plante states: “Personal mementos and favorite keepsakes were on display; “homeyness” was paramount in each and every room, and artistic liberties created breathtaking settings.”
We help folks decorate their Victorian house and fall-in-love with that special treasure. We help people avoid the Chinese copies that are reproduced on an industrial scale – over 300,000 per year according to one estimate. Worse yet, some of these “art factories” are striving to become the “fast food” of the art world. Your beautiful Victorian home is not a “want fries with that” type of environment. Your eye-catching Victorian house is where you forget the fast-track of your daily life and get to relax. Original unique Victorian fine art that complements you and your home’s personality helps ratchet down your stress level. Include great wine and good friends and you have yourself a gathering that is a cut above the ordinary. You are an “original” in your own right, so it makes sense to select adornments for you walls that are also one-of-a-kind.
It is understandable why some people put prints and copies on their walls. Many people may be intimidated by the process of selecting a piece of original 19th and early 20th century fine art. They believe they are out of their element. The print or copy they select might somewhat match their décor, however, it is just that “decorative.” Going beyond mere decoration is the highest compliment you can pay yourself and your home. Choosing original fine art for your Victorian house is deeply personal and if done right, deeply satisfying.
The most honest art gallery in the world.
We have an unshakeable commitment to provideing five-star customer service. Here’s what our customers are saying:
"A gem in the middle of Pennsylvania."
John and Kathy D.
"A visit to the Bedford Fine Arts Gallery is a rare opportunity to see American nineteenth landscape, portrait, and still life paintings in a house-turned-gallery of the same era, in a region close to where some of the artists, such as The Scalp Level School, painted."
Ellen C.
"Absolutely stunning art!"
Irene and Peter E.
"Jerry and Joan were honest and straightforward with me. Also, they made the sale easy and fair."
Margaret H.
"This wonderful gallery is often noted to be on par with a 19th century art museum or salon and is not to be missed, including meeting its’ purveyors of art, Joan and Jerry Hawk. Their discerning eye, thorough research, and care in selecting and presenting the best representative art of the period is most impressive."
Sarah H.
"Jerry & Joan offered the work fully restored and framed so it was ready to hang. They were easy to deal with which went a long way since I was buying from outside the US."
Ed H.
"Combining knowledge and passion with their friendly home spun appreciation for their clients, the Hawks are the most delightful respite from the usual gallery sales approach."
Vivian and Bennett L.
"Awesome place. Thank you for your hospitality."
Joe and Zoey K.
"Beautiful and wonderfully displayed paintings."
John and Paula L.
"Beautifully done - one can tell it is a work of love! The collection was impressive and the viewing of it , a pleasure. Thank you!"
Gabrielle G.
"If you are able to visit the gallery I would suggest giving a few hours to enjoy the artwork. One more tip.... if your satisfied how the paintings look online, they are much better in person. I know I'll be back in Bedford soon to purchase another!"
Randy Scott F.
"Joan and Jerry Hawk’s Bedford Fine Art Gallery, located in the historic Bedford Mansion, near the Bedford Courthouse, offers an extensive collection of original 19th century paintings in their beautifully restored gallery...which continually attracts this appreciative collector and former museum trustee."
Charles F.
"Our impulsive stop while strolling through town turned into a several-hour visit and, ultimately, resulted in the purchase of a unique painting that we could not resist. The Bedford Fine Art Gallery is a destination must that we highly recommend for anyone who appreciates classic American art and superior service."
Jennifer T.
"Buying a favourite picture and talking with owners was a wonderful experience. Looking forward to seeing what they post for sale in the future."
V.B.
"My introduction to Gerald Hawk came through an initial phone call. Not only was he knowledgeable of fine art and well connected with the collecting community, he was passionate for his love of art. He treated me with the greatest respect, honesty, and kindness. That was the start of a business relationship that has probably been the most enjoyable I have had the pleasure to experience in my life."
Fred C.
"I recommend BFAG to both the serious art collector and to the one who desires to cultivate a love for fine art. The Hawks are knowledgeable and accommodating, and their love for fine art goes far beyond making a sale."
Fred C.
"I recommend BFAG to both the serious art collector and to the one who desires to cultivate a love for fine art. The Hawks are knowledgeable and accommodating, and their love for fine art goes far beyond making a sale."
Gus S.
"Extremely knowledgeable staff and wide selection of high end paintings by listed artists."
Joshua J.
"From the front door, you can tell you are going to have a very interesting, pleasant and peaceful experience. The art is wonderful. The owners have so much knowledge and the patience to share it."
Jeff and Sara K.
"From the first call through receipt of the expertly packaged artwork, the Bedford Fine Art Gallery excels!"
Randy B.
"Gerry was amazing to work with. Called him totally out of the blue, to sell a painting from my mom’s estate. Promptness is an understatement."
Uri S.
"Proprietors Joan and Jerry Hawk have established a first class art gallery offering the very best in fine art, professionally arranged displays, state-of-the-art technology, and superior customer service."
Gary G.
"Personalized, smart, customer service designed to assist you in choosing the finest 19th century paintings anywhere—whether you know your style & you’re adding to it, buying investment art, or like me—walking in and being starstruck by a piece that calls to me with no rhyme or reason but must come home with me."
Tyna L.
"Hi Jerry, the painting arrived today and I think it is a beautiful and I’m very appreciative and thankful to have it."
Jon
"I just wanted to check in to see how you are to tell you that I was reminded yesterday of what an awesome business you guys have going. I went to one of the other galleries that has some of my artwork, and the person that I was dealing with no longer works there. Everything was mass chaos, and they can’t find one of my paintings! Jeff and I already knew that we found a gem when we found your gallery but then we got to spend time with you in December and it was doubly confirmed! Thank you again for letting us be a part of your beautiful Gallery."
Lisa G.
"I am enjoying my artists work and their position in my Mechanicsburg home, as well as Williamsburg."
Doris B.
"I am so happy to have worked with the Bedford Art Gallery; the people were pleasant and knowledgeable. Their collection is beautiful."
Suzanne F.
"I am so happy with my completed “gallery wall” and wanted to thank you for all your help in putting it together."
Janet and George S.
"I drove 12 hours to meet the nicest couple and outstanding artwork that was perfectly and honestly represented. More than pleased with expertise, professionalism, and kindness genuinely exhibited by Jerry and Joan."
Brent & Sarah S.
"They were both very knowledgeable and truly care about each and every piece that they own. Ultimately, I was able to take home my very first John Joseph Enneking piece, Woodland Whitewater, and I could not be happier with both the piece and my entire experience at Bedford Fine Art gallery."
Sam H.
"Upon meeting both Jerry and Joan I knew I made the right decision. They are very passionate about art work and quite knowledgeable on the life and history of the artist. It was a pleasure doing business with them and I would highly recommend the Bedford Fine Art Gallery if you are looking for fairness, honesty and a genuine comfort level in either selling or purchasing fine art."
Scott & Barbette
"I really enjoyed the art, but the house, decore and overall experience was also very enjoyable"
William K.
"I would recommend this hidden gem!"
Rhetta G.
"Couldn’t have been a better or easier transaction! Again, many thanks."
Betty D.
"If I could give more than 5 starts to Bedford Fine Art Gallery, I would. Dealing with Jerry Hawk was timely, efficient and productive. His terms made it possible for me to buy it, and he collaborated with a local shipping outfit to pack and send the painting as well. (It was beautifully and securely packed.) I recommend Bedford Fine Art Gallery without reservation!"
M.P.
"I am thrilled with my purchase and cannot thank the Hawk’s enough for their exceptional customer service, and knowledge of the artist's paintings they carry in their gallery."
Marian B.
"It was such a pleasure to purchase artwork from Jerry. He is an honest man, who goes the extra mile (literally – he actually delivered a painting to me, over 6 hour drive one way!) to make sure the painting arrived safely."
Julie A.
"It’s not every day you meet people so kind, professional and passionate about what they do. Every detail was taken care of from the excellent online listing to perfectly handled packing and shipping once we completed the purchase."
Jeff and Lisa G.
"In this age of internet shopping, few can pull off personalized and professional customer service, but Bedford Fine Art Gallery has perfected it!"
Christopher K.
"In sum, Bedford Fine Art Gallery is an exceptional art gallery which fosters meaningful relationships based on mutual respect, trust, and an appreciation for the field of art history. I highly recommend Bedford Fine Art Gallery and I look forward to forging a lasting relationship with Jerry and Joan for years to come."
Tyler M.
"Jerry and Joan Hawk have created a haven for art lovers!"
Michal J.
"Jerry and Joan were a constant pleasure to work with. I had been considering purchasing a presidential portrait of theirs for some time, but they never tired of my questions or repeated requests to see the painting. I hope to acquire more 20th and 19th oil paintings in the future."
Patrick N.
"Jerry Hawk's passion and knowledge really shine in Bedford Fine Art Gallery's excellent collection of 19th century art. I heartily recommend Jerry and his gallery."
Rob S.
"Joan and Jerry are extraordinary to work with for the purchase of our painting. They are extremely knowledgeable about the painting and have been helpful finding historical information about the Artist himself. Our beautiful painting hangs proudly where all can see and enjoy it."
Ryan M.
"It was a delight to have several hours with some very interesting and helpful people."
Roger and Joy G.
"We will undoubtedly visit again to see the art in this remarkable gallery. We brought home a watercolor and have the confidence we were dealt with openly and fairly."
William and Susan L.
"Let’s face it, paintings are expensive, and it can be a traumatic experience buying them. Jerry and Joan do as much as any vendor possibly could do to make the experience relaxed, warm, and joyful. We came away with a high level of trust and satisfaction, knowing that we got a square deal on some wonderful paintings and knowing that Jerry and Joan provide great customer support."
Beth and Sam
"Magnificent. Your love for your art collection is displayed in your gallery."
Dave N.
"Jerry and Joan Hawk have an extensive knowledge of the artists, backgrounds, and artwork in their gallery that they love to share with guests . The time invested in the Bedford Fine Arts Gallery will be one of your most pleasant memories of the year."
John B.
"The breadth and depth of Jerry's knowledge of art is very impressive. What I especially appreciated was his down to earth manner and his willingness to know his customers."
Theodora B
"The owners, Joan and Jerry Hawk, were very knowledgeable about each work of art in the Gallery and the art market in general. We found them to be very honest and sincere and never pushy about making a sale despite our interest in several pieces. A few weeks later we decided to purchase an oil painting from them. The overall transaction and delivery exceeded our expectations and we love the painting. If you are interested in purchasing a fine work of art from a dealer you can trust, I would highly recommend Joan and Jerry of the Bedford Fine Art Gallery."
Mark B.
"They provided a simple and seamless transaction."
Richard and Cassie F.
"Jerry and Joan are simply amazing. Their knowledge and passion are second to none. Not only is the collection at Bedford Fine Art Gallery of museum quality, but their passion really inspires you, comforts you, and welcomes you in as a member of what seems like an exclusive club. We are blessed to know them."
Jason and Alyson L.
"Discovering Bedford Fine Art Gallery and working with Jerry and Joan to purchase our first picture from them has been a smooth and joyful experience — and we haven’t even met in person yet."
Bob and Theresa L.
"Visiting with no intention of buying, we were treated to in depth information on each artist and piece that caught our attention. We untimately purchased two pieces that touched us. Art speaks to everyone differently and it is nice to have gallery owners who appreciate that."
Sheila and Frank
"On a recent trip to Bedford we visited the Fine Art Gallery and were impressed by the quality of the paintings displayed and by the discussions we had with Jerry. We purchased a painting and we expect to revisit the Gallery on our next trip to Bedford."
Marguerite and Bob
"We have counted on the Hawks over the years to regularly discover incredible items whose quality and condition have ameliorated the artistic environment of our homes."
Frank B.
"Furthermore after discussing its acquisition with Joan not only did I find the entire process most pleasant but Joan agreed to deliver the painting the very next day which was in fact my birthday. I find this sort of old-fashioned business courtesy so rare these days. What a pleasure to do business with people like this! I wholeheartedly recommend art purchases from this company! They are simply the best!"
D. H.
:Since the first time I visited the Bedford Fine Art Gallery it has been a great experience. The owners are warm, humble, and true professionals with amazing expertise to guide new collectors in finding the right piece that speaks to them. The knowledge and passion they share is so refreshing and made the entire process, from browsing to the final decision, so exciting and a true pleasure"
Josh B.
"Such a lovely experience with Knowledgeable people passionate about art."
Beth Anne J.
"Thank you for all your assistance with my recent purchase. Both you and your wife were very kind and knowledgeable."
Michael M.
"Thank you for including me on your mailing list. Every time I see Bedford Fine Art Gallery in my mail I know I am in for a treat."
Beth L.
"We were especially appreciative of your patience with us and your knowledge of the art."
Lee S.
"Thanks again for the opportunity to own the work of an artist who is very important to us. We are extremely happy with this experience. Take care."
Franklin J.
"Thanks for the quick reply etc. Not what usually comes from those Big Auction House Players .. and NYC galleries. So it’s refreshing to experience the response."
Geoffrey H.
"The Bedford Fine Art Gallery was recommended to us by our neighbors. They were very impressed both by the wonderful artwork presented and the very amiable owners. So, one rainy day, we stopped in to see for ourselves. We are so glad we did! It was immediately evident that, for Jerry and Joan, the gallery was not a business but a passion."
Jeff and Cathy D.
"The new paintings are hung and look great, thanks for delivering."
Janet S.
"I would highly recommend this Gallery for art."
Christopher C.
"This sounds perfect. I am really happy that after being in the family for a hundred years, they will be in good hands at your gallery. I was very impressed by your website and your dedication to and appreciation for fine art."
Antonia S.
"I was very pleased with the way the communication between Gerald Hawk and myself was handled. Very prompt and efficient. I would recommend the Bedford Fine Art Gallery to anyone interested in their beautiful artwork."
Debra B.
"Very informative, welcoming, absolutely gorgeous art. Thank you so much for the experience!"
Kit T.
"We found Bedford Fine Art Gallery about a year ago. Most impressive was the level of customer service they bring to the table. They went out of their way to be as helpful and accommodating as possible. We bought a wonderful painting we love."
Tim and Mary H.
"A truly incredible website. Really! I was "detained" there for almost two hours and have returned periodically. Pictures are worth thousands of words, literally. Any reader who heeds our advice and visits the site will be happy to confirm our praise. We encourage all to visit and get to know Joan and Jerry. Most knowledgeable, friendly, accommodating, and a pleasure to deal with."
Carroll and Carolyn K.
"If you are considering a wall art purchase to decorate your home, we would highly recommend contacting The Fine Art Gallery. We look forward to seeing what new pieces will be added in the newly expanded lower level of the gallery."
Ryan and Tricia
"We recently consigned several pieces of art to The Bedford Fine Art Gallery. It is hard to part with treasures, but Jerry and Joan were most accommodating in meeting us halfway in West Virginia. We appreciate their professionalism, received prompt payment for the sale of the first art piece and look forward to continued successful transactions."
Pam and Mike F.
"We recently purchased a beautiful original oil painting from Bedford Fine Art Gallery. We live in Virginia, and because of Covid 19 and our age, we hesitated on traveling to PA to view this painting. Jerry and Joan were very accommodating. We highly recommend Bedford Fine Art Gallery, if you're in the market for some quality art work."
Sonny and Carolyn B.
"Joan made us extremely welcome on that first visit and we were very taken with the work of two artists. We returned the next day and enjoyed a relaxed opportunity to study the pictures again before we committed to purchase. Both Joan and Jerry were very knowledgeable and helpful but also allowed us some privacy to discuss the pictures ourselves. Once we committed to purchase they went "the extra mile" to help overcome obvious hurdles of packing for international shipping and the customs arrangements."
Russell & Liz C.
"We were so happy with Joan and Jerry’s customer service and expertise. I would recommend Bedford Fine Art Gallery to anyone that is looking for the special piece of art. You will be happy you reached out to them."
Bob and Christine M.
"What a great experience it was to make my first fine art purchase with you. Thank you!"
Mark S.
"What an incredible experience as I was on the search for a still life by BS Hays. Bedford Fine Art Gallery offers a beautiful, historical environment with a personalized service, guiding you through lovely art offerings."
Susan M.
"When I first saw the painting, it reminded me of a time gone by, when life was so much more simple, where everyone was less in a rush, a time when everyone knew everyone, a time where people actually cared for their fellow man."
Bill B.
"Jerry & Joan - Thanks for your hospitality and helping us find this beautiful new piece for our home. Until next time..."
Adrienne & Jon W.
"We have been very happy with the entire purchase process, from choosing a piece of art to the care Jerry and Joan gave the piece in order for it to look perfect in our home."
Mary and Monty B.
"We are now excited owners of several beautiful paintings and look forward to seeing what new pieces are added to the gallery. Working with Jerry and Joan was a great experience."
Patty and Jim K.
"Thank you very, very much for your response and expertise."
LV
"Hello Jerry, I love it. Just what I had been wanting."
Kevin V.
"Hi Gerald; My testimonial for my purchase of the C. H. Shearer painting is a five star one! I was both delighted and impressed by the quality and quantity of the artworks in your gallery. But most of all I was pleased with your hospitality, and also the honesty, thoroughness, and customer-service-oriented nature of your interactions with me when I toured the gallery and paid for the painting. Your gallery is vein of gold for those searching for a unique gallery where treasures may await. May you continue in your success!"
Jeffrey F.
"Jerry, thank you for overlooking my stubbornness and indecisiveness. It's a great picture and absolutely excellent framing. The family loves it!!"
Rich C.
VictoriansAreVeryNice22 |
"Thank you- you are very kind."
Tim S.
"We really appreciate the time you took to research the history of the roses. Many thanks again."
Jim C.
"The more I look at Rose Point the more I like it. Again thanks so much for the wonderful photos."
James M.
"We consigned 3 oil paintings with Jerry and Joan Hawk at Bedford Fine Art Gallery. They were sold for what we considered a fair market price. We were paid promptly. The entire process was conducted cordially and professionally."
Mike F.
"It was such a pleasure to buy our first piece of fine art from you both - a lovely experience and will be remembered forever. Looking forward to visiting again!! Thank you again!"
Mike and Kelly C.
"When I'm searching for an artist, or a tone and style that I love, I turn to Bedford Fine Art Gallery. Gerald Hawk and staff are courteous, friendly, and, best of all, they know their art. The kind of hands-on service they offer is rare, from conserved and framed artwork to shipping, far above and beyond other galleries. I've purchased three paintings that I love from Gerald. If you're looking for late 19th or early 20th Century art, and even some modern surprises, you can't go wrong with Bedford Fine Art Gallery."
Michael M.
"The painting arrived, a little late because of the storm, and in perfect condition. Thank you so so much. It is absolutely beautiful, and the original information you enclosed is fascinating! To think that it has been here, since the mid 1960s, passed around I presume to various folks and family, and that he was such an accomplished painter. It is a joy to have in our collection, and we will take good care of it, for the rest of our lives. Thank you."
Bob L.
"Ken came and delivered the art. Everything is beautiful. Thank you so much. Ken was great as well."
Rick M.
If seeing is believing, here is a peek at some of the original fine art our many customers have purchased from us.
Bedford Fine Art Gallery
We are proud to have our fine art galleries in our 1889 and 1930 homes in beautiful historic Bedford, Pennsylvania.
Some of our personal Victorian home decor plus examples of original Victorian paintings for sale
Some great historic places to stay, in and around downtown Bedford, PA:
Victorian Decor FAQ
Victorian home decor is characterized by its complexity, elegance, and attention to detail. It often includes intricate patterns, heavy fabrics, ornate furniture, and a rich color palette. This style emphasizes both beauty and functionality, incorporating elements from various periods and influences.
Victorian interiors often feature deep, rich colors like burgundy, navy, forest green, and plum. Lighter colors such as blush pink, ivory, and lavender were also popular for creating a more airy and delicate space. Walls were frequently adorned with elaborate wallpaper designs.
Victorian furniture is known for its elaborate craftsmanship and detailed woodwork. Common pieces include heavy, ornate wooden tables, upholstered chairs and sofas with luxurious fabrics, and intricate bookcases. Furniture pieces were often made of dark woods like mahogany and walnut.
Windows in Victorian decor are often dressed with heavy drapes, accompanied by lace or sheer curtains to allow light while providing privacy. The drapes could be adorned with tassels and fringe, adding to the overall opulence of the room.
Victorian homes usually feature a variety of wall decorations including oil paintings, portraits, and landscapes in ornate frames, as well as wall hangings and tapestries. Decorative plates, mirrors, and sconces are also common.
Absolutely. Many homeowners blend Victorian decor elements with modern designs to create a unique, eclectic look. This can involve incorporating Victorian-inspired furniture, wallpaper, or decorative items into a more contemporary setting.
Lighting plays a crucial role in Victorian decor, with a focus on creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. Chandeliers, wall sconces, and table lamps with ornate details and warm-toned shades are typical, often featuring brass or crystal elements.
To achieve Victorian decor on a budget, focus on key elements such as richly colored textiles, second-hand ornate furniture, and DIY wall decorations like framed vintage prints. Thrift stores and antique shops can be great sources for affordable finds.
Victorian homes typically feature hardwood floors, often covered with ornate rugs or carpets. In more formal areas, you might find parquet flooring with intricate designs, while tiles in geometric patterns were common in entryways and kitchens.
Textiles are crucial in Victorian home decor, used to add color, texture, and warmth to a space. Heavy drapes, plush upholstery, and layered bedding in rich fabrics like velvet, silk, and brocade are key to achieving the Victorian look.
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Decorating your home is an opportunity to express your personality, create an inviting atmosphere, and enhance the overall aesthetic. While there are countless options available, fine art stands out as one of the most impactful and enriching choices. Here are several reasons why incorporating fine art into your home decor is a decision you won’t regret.
What Makes Decorating Your Victorian Home So Unique?
With their ornate architecture, intricate details, and timeless charm, Victorian homes are a delight for anyone who loves historical aesthetics. Decorating a Victorian home offers a unique opportunity to honor the past while expressing personal style.
Buying and Restoring a Victorian Home in the United States
Victorian homes, characterized by their ornate detailing, gabled roofs, and historical charm, have captured the imagination of homebuyers and renovators alike. These architectural gems, typically built between the mid-19th century and early 20th century, offer a unique blend of craftsmanship and style that modern homes often need to improve.
The Timeless Beauty of a Victorian Home
Few styles in architecture have the enduring charm and historical significance of Victorian homes. Named after Queen Victoria, who reigned over the British Empire from 1837 to 1901, these homes reflect the luxury, craftsmanship, and eclectic design principles of the 19th century.
Why Original Victorian Paintings Belong in Your Victorian Home
When you walk into a Victorian home, you’re immediately struck by its unique blend of grandeur, charm, and intricate detail. The architecture, characterized by ornate moldings, stained glass, and rich woodwork, tells a story of a bygone era.
Restoring Victorian Houses: A Journey Back in Time
Our home, the Barclay Mansion, is in historic Bedford, Pennsylvania, and has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 1978. In addition to being our home, the Barclay Mansion is also the site of our business, Bedford Fine Art Gallery, where we always have over 300 authentic, beautiful Victorian paintings for sale.
Victorian Era Paintings at Bedford Fine Art Gallery, Bedford, PA
Nestled in the scenic town of Bedford, Pennsylvania, the Bedford Fine Art Gallery presents a remarkable collection of Victorian-era paintings, offering a splendid view into 19th-century art. The gallery’s selection features a range of works from this prosperous artistic period, known for its detailed, passionate, and often moralistic pieces that reflect the time’s social values and aesthetic sensibilities.
Victorian Homes and Fine Art
Victorian homes and fine art share a deep connection, mirroring the era’s broader cultural and aesthetic values. The Victorian era, known for its emphasis on opulence, detail, and a mix of architectural styles, saw homes as extensions of personal taste and social status. These residences often featured elaborate decorations, including intricately designed wallpapers, stained glass, and ornate woodwork, embodying the era’s penchant for visual richness and complexity.
What Are Victorian Paintings?
Victorian paintings refer to the body of visual art created during the Victorian era, spanning the reign of Queen Victoria from 1837 to 1901. This period was marked by rapid industrialization, social change, and the expansion of the British Empire, all of which influenced the thematic and stylistic aspects of the art produced. Victorian paintings encompass a wide range of subjects, including historical scenes, landscapes, portraits, and social commentaries, reflecting the complex socio-political landscape of the time.
Victorian Landscape Paintings For Sale
Nestled in the picturesque town of Bedford, Pennsylvania, Bedford Fine Art Gallery stands as a beacon of integrity and authenticity in the art world. Revered as the most honest art gallery in the world, this esteemed institution offers an exquisite collection of Victorian landscape paintings that captivate art enthusiasts and collectors alike.