What is Chippendale Furniture?

Chippendale furniture is the creation of Thomas Chippendale, a London-based cabinetmaker born on 5 June 1718. Thomas Chippendale designed furniture in a variety of styles, including Rococo and Neoclassical, before he set out to revolutionize the industry by creating a new bold style. In 1754, Chippendale published a book called "The Gentleman and Cabinet Maker's Director," known today as the foremost guide to Chippendale furniture and other styles of the time. Chippendale furniture has a refined and graceful form, with either straight or slightly curved lines. A blend of Rococo, Gothic, and Chinese styles, Chippendale furniture is a perfect example of a mix between form and function. Most examples of this style of furniture include square, tall, boxed-up structures with lots of drawers or miniature doors. While the pieces themselves were plain, the decoration used was not. Carved tops, family crests, and intricate knobs are all essential to Chippendale furniture. The signature ...  more

Chippendale, one of the outstanding styles of American furniture, originated in the mid 1700s. Find out information about Thomas Chippendale, unique characteristics of this style, and decorating tips.  more