Wallpapers from the 1500–1700 Period
The History of Wallpaper
The earliest European wallpapers were exclusive, hand-painted pieces, often imported from Asia. Silk and leather were also popular wall coverings in wealthy homes. In Sweden, wallpaper makers began block printing wallpapers during the 1500s and 1600s. Patterns were created using glue-based paints, woodcuts, and simple stencils. Paper was expensive, and wallpapers consisted of small sheets pasted together into long strips – a time-consuming and costly process, making wallpaper a true luxury at the time.
By the late 1700s, wallpaper grew increasingly popular in Sweden and became more common among wealthy townspeople. Many designs were made by local Swedish artisans, though plenty were imported from France, England, and Germany.
Below, we explore the styles featured in wallpapers of the 1500s, 1600s, and 1700s – an exciting journey from Renaissance to Gustavian Neoclassicism and traditional Swedish folk style.
Renaissance Wallpapers from the 1500s
The Renaissance embraced a revival of classical ideals, with a hallmark of the era being the golden ratio and harmonious proportions. Wealthy homes featured gilded ceilings, murals, and woven wall coverings. Few wallpapers survive from this era, but if you seek antique designs, look for acanthus leaves, grotesques (ornate figures), and moresques (stylized floral motifs).
In Sweden, woven wall hangings were in use by the early 1500s. The oldest preserved Swedish paper wallpaper dates back to the 1570s and was discovered on ceiling beams in Malmö’s Rosenvingska House in the 1950s. This Renaissance design is now reissued by Boråstapeter: Rosenvinge – a stunning piece of cultural heritage!
Baroque Wallpapers from the 1600s and 1700s
The Baroque style was dramatic and meant to impress. Designs were lavish, sometimes almost exaggerated, with interiors decorated with gilt leather, faux wood finishes, spiral columns, and oval medallions. Acanthus motifs were also common in Baroque wallpapers.
Rococo Wallpapers from the Early 1700s
In the 18th century, Baroque grandeur gave way to Rococo elegance – theatrical, asymmetrical, and decorative. S- and C-shaped motifs inspired by shells, corals, and ribbons (rocaille) became typical. Striped wallpapers with floral garlands were fashionable, as were diamond grids with ornate accents. Chinoiserie, inspired by Asian art, also became a trend. Look for delicate shells, roses, birds, and fruits for a Rococo-style interior.
Gustavian Wallpapers from the Late 1700s
In the second half of the 18th century, Neoclassicism and Gustavian design prevailed. Wallpapers showcased light pastels, stripes, columns, rosettes, and leafy garlands (festoons). Furniture was slim and decorated with medallions or small floral motifs. The Gustavian style was calmer and more symmetrical than Rococo, bringing a sense of refined elegance.
Folk Wallpapers
In rural Swedish homes, traditional folk art was prevalent. Furniture, textiles, and household objects were adorned with painted or embroidered patterns in red, green, and blue. Walls were often timbered or panelled, sometimes with a wainscot and wallpaper above. Stencilled and splatter-painted finishes in this classic colour palette were common. Folk-inspired wallpapers with stencil prints or splatter effects are a perfect choice for a cosy, traditional atmosphere.