Mission Furniture Definition

History

• New York furniture maker Joseph McHugh first used the term "mission" in 1895 to describe the simple, clean-lined furniture he produced. A few years later, Gustav Stickley, an influential advocate for the movement and founder of The Craftsman magazine, began producing furniture and designing homes, and you can still buy Stickley furniture today.

Time Frame

• The mission era dates from 1895 to about 1916 in the United States, but its effects are still felt today.

Significance

• The clean, simple lines and geometric forms of modern furniture are rooted in mission design.

Features

• Mission-style furniture is typically made of unpainted wood, including oak, dark oak and cherry. Leather and natural fabrics with earth-tone colors and nature-inspired prints are often used as upholstery.

Function

• Mission furniture was designed with function in mind. Pieces are sturdy, usually constructed of solid wood, and built to last.