Measured Drawings for 18 classic pieces.

The first comprehensive re-evaluation for 100 years. New and original research. Re-assesses the chronology of late seventeenth century English furniture design. A standard reference for beginners and Specialists alike. Extensively illustrated.

Chairs of the Queen Anne and Chippendale period (1730-1795), really one continuous development without a break, have been chosen since this form shows the many facets of a gradual development, is easily handled, and is available in quantity. In order not to prejudge where the chairs were made, they were first grouped solely according to similar means of construction and design. Only after groups of like objects were formed was attention paid to their histories, labels, and similar documentation, Happily, when analyzed, enough of this secondary information was found associated with each group to provide the knowledge as to where they originated. -- pg. 4.

This publication documents The Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection of early colonial furniture and presents a broad spectrum of furniture forms made in America during the 17th and early 18th centuries, including chairs and other seating, tables, boxes, various types of chests and cupboards, dressing tables, and desks. The volume also includes prime examples of the different modes of ornamentation in fashion during that period. Over 140 objects are thoroughly described, with detailed information given on each one's construction, condition, dimensions, materials, and inscriptions and other marks, as well as provenance and exhibition history. Every object is explained in terms of the styles and craftsmanship of the period and evaluated in light of comparative pieces in public and private collections throughout the country. Also included is one appendix containing photographic details of construction and decorative elements, and another with line drawings explaining furniture terms and showing various types of joints and moldings. This is the first volume in a series of two that is dedicated to American furniture in the Museum. -- Metropolitan Museum of Art website.

The history and construction of 18th century American furniture is examined in this critical evaluation that looks at the topic both from an aesthetic and technical point of view

Over 1700 of Skibinski's line drawings present a visual approach to the identification of antique furnishings. The book is arranged in chronological sequences (17th century through the early 20th century) by type of furniture, from tables and settees to desks and bookcases. Butler and Johnson have included some important information for the novice and the experienced collector: the sources of furniture used as models for the illustrations; lists of museums, art galleries, and special displays of outstanding collections of furniture; a selected bibliography and a glossary; the anatomy of a piece of furniture; and a brief history of the periods of furniture and furniture makers. Highly recommended for public libraries and other subject collections.