Dictionary
High Victorian

The High Victorian period lasts from 1850 to around 1875. As in the Early Victorian period, a strong tendency towards gothic style can be observed in architecture. Among the main works from "High Victorian Gothic" is the church All Saints' (William Butterfield, began in 1849) and the Albert Memorial (Sir George Gilbert Scott, 1864-76), which arouse an impression of gothic church architecture, with its pointed arches, thin pillars and triskelion elements; however, the forms were not entirely taken over, but rather worked over in an imaginative manner. Another striking feature is the obvious polychromy and the large-scale use of patterns and ornaments. Additionally, a style that has Italian notions can also be observed in architecture, strongly inspired by Italian renaissance palaces, becoming the most favored building style for residential houses (Osborne House, 1845-48).
A better furnishing was affordable for more and more people in the course of the industrial revolution. Characteristic elements of interior design were shiny, polished tables with curved forms, oriental carpets and wallpaper with colorful patterns with plant and naturalistic ornaments; a piano was also often part of the room. The High Victorian epoch was followed by the Late Victorian period in 1875.