A great variety of woods were used, and the general designs included shapely curves and an overall symmetry. Famous manufacturers of the period include George Hepplewhite and Thomas Sheraton. This period is marked by neo-classical designs and motifs. It coincides with the beginning of European interest in archaeology, and America's desire to symbolize ancient Democratic ideals. The furniture itself is usually bold, modern versions of classical furniture, decorated with gilding and images such as dolphins, cornucopias and lyres.
American pieces are usually less ornate than their English and French counterparts.
The designs were extremely simple and Spartan, and often rather tall and narrow. The voluptuous ottoman chairs and dark-wooded parlor sets that characterized much American and English furniture in the latter 19th century were inspired by the luxurious antique French Louis XV style. After the ornate stylings of the Victorian era, this movement was marked by a return to simple design and hand craftsmanship. The hand-wrought look was supposed to restore dignity to the average craftsman after the Industrial Revolution placed more value on production than the skill of the worker. Mission Furniture features chunky, rectilinear pieces whose straight-lined style is reminiscent of the large, blocky Spanish missions in California.