Perhaps the most famous of this fraternity was Thomas Chippendale. Born in Yorkshire England, Chippendale learned his trade from his father and became known not only as a designer, but also as a writer, wood carver, and manufacturer of furniture.
Midway through his life, he published the first of three volumes in 1754 that were entitled “The Gentlemen and Cabinet Maker’s Directory”. Containing numerous engravings of furniture designs, these tomes became the “bible” for future cabinet makers, Chippendale’s uniqueness is also exemplified by the fact that he actually made furniture with his own hands, and in 1749 he established a furniture factory in London.
The Chippendale “style” is best noted for its solidity and grace that is combined with elaborate decoration. Each of his styles drew upon and improved on the known styles of his time. He is perhaps best known as a designer of chairs, his most famous being the ladder back.
Although he was able to work with many woods due to his father’s training, his favorite was the richness of mahogany and he became the first furniture maker to use that wood consistently. This contribution alone has affected cabinet making and design even to this day. An example of his work with mahogany is shown below. Of note in this photo is the ball and claw foot, which originated in China. The ball and claw is said to have symbolized being blessed as a writer.
