Throughout the 20th century, French antiques have played a vital role in the film industry as furniture props providing an authentic backdrop from history. This has been true from the early days of cinema through to contemporary cinema and period dramas today. In the very early days of cinema, scenarios from some of the most romantic cities in Europe could be seen depicted.
Cities such as Paris, Rome, and Venice to name just a few, became idyllic settings for cinema goers looking for a short-term escape from their everyday lives . A typical scene would be set in a Parisian street cafe or cosy dimly lit bistro featuring all the classic lines of French architecture with its sweeping curves and large widows.
It was not just the use of old French furniture that helped bring these scenes to life. It’s clear, when properly inspected, the backdrops of many of these film scenes reveal careful attention to detail to dressing and stylising sets. France, in particular Paris, featured frequently in early romantic movies, with a strong use of French antiques and French antique furniture to create an authentic atmosphere.
Creating a period-correct set is possibly the main challenge facing set designers. The set design must be fully convincing, with the ability to transport the viewer to a given location or scenario. Skill set designers are able to incorporate architectural and decorative elements in a natural, uncontrived way producing a totally absorbing backdrop for a particular film scene.In the case of period dramas and films, the use of antique ornaments can help to link larger pieces of furniture such as an antique French wardrobe helping to add to the overall effect.
The popularity of period films and dramas has remained a staple of the film industry since its early days charting the history of nations and cultures all over the globe. This in turn has lead to an ever increasing demand for authentic period pieces. Due to this demand, many filmmakers have turned to high-quality reproductions or vintage furniture that has a look-alike appearance of an antique without the associated financial risks from breakage or theft. Vintage French furniture is a classic case in point with its boundless supply found in French antique markets and French antique fairs. A good example would be a an antique gilt mirror or French arm chairs normally widely available at these events. These are also now common place in second hand shops all over France. That said, harder to find would be a more unusual item such as a long trestle table although this is something a good set designer could easily replicate.
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