Chippendale
Among others, Chippendale’s name is associated with the furniture of this period, and his book of designs, published about the middle of the eighteenth century, contained, besides furniture, suggestions for the complete decoration of rooms. Chippendale was undoubtedly influenced by the Louis XV style, and at one period he attempted to exploit Chinese forms and details.
The chairs designed by him were based on the earlier Queen Anne type, but the vase-shaped back was replaced by pierced and carved interlacing bands and ribbons. For a time the cabriole leg was retained, but
| No. 122. | A. Transitional Chair, 18th century. |
| B. Mahogany“ “ “ Sheraton. | |
| C. “ “ “ “ Chippendale. | |
| D. Walnut “ “ “ Hepplewhite. |
later examples have straight square legs. The chairs were fitted with loose upholstered seats covered with morocco leather.
Furniture was generally in mahogany, which had been introduced a little earlier from the West Indies, and had become popular on account of the colour and figure developed by polishing. Mahogany lends itself to fine mouldings and detail, and this was evidently appreciated, as relief decoration on furniture in this wood received a more restrained treatment, while plain surfaces were made more extensive.