The tradition of painted furniture dates back to medieval Europe, where it served as both protection and decoration for wooden furniture. Decorative furniture painting involving techniques such as gilding, stencilling, and applied fine art, to create elaborate, unique pieces.

These techniques can be applied to various types of furniture, including wardrobes, cabinets, chests of drawers, and even cast iron baths.

The designs can range from simple geometric patterns to intricate floral motifs, and even depictions of nature or historical scenes.