Georgian & Regency Furniture. Chippendale & neoclassical Hepplewhite

Georgian & Regency Furniture

Furniture built from hardwoods such as Walnut and later from Mahogany would of been fashionablein the Georgian period. Some plaster decorations painted and gilted would of also be found. Softwood such as pine and fir would of been a cheaper material used in kitchens and servant quarters.

Key furniture pieces in enteraining areas would of been sideboards, console table with marble tops, drinks cabinets, card tables and glass fronted built in bookcases. In the bedrooms and dressing rooms; wooden four poster beds with heavy drapes to keep out the draughts, wash stands and chaise-longues.

Decorations on furniture would of been carved swags, fruit, flowers and leaves. Claw and ball feet could be found on chair and table legs.

Thomas Chippendale(1718 - 1779) was a cabinet maker and interior designer. He was commissioned to design furniture for many large houses and collaborated with Robert Adams. Chippendale published his furniture designs in The Gentleman and Cabinet Maker's Director.

George Hepplewhite(1727- 1786) was a cabinet and chair maker. His wife published his original designs in The Cabinet Maker and Upholsterers Guide in 1788. The neoclassical Hepplewhite style is most recognised by his shield back chair, made of delicate contrasting veneers, a slender balanced design with uncarved tapered legs.

Regency

Regency period was influenced by the French empire and Egyptian temple. Hieroglyphics, animal heads and eagles were commonly used as decorations. The oval gilt plaster framed mirror with gilt balls could often be found in on Regency walls.

Georgian

1. Mahogany sideboard 2& 3. Card table 4. Wash Stand 5. Four poster bed