Chippendale Chair Information

Many modern chairs still incorporate Chippendale's feet designs.

Chippendale chairs are named for Thomas Chippendale, an eighteenth century English cabinetmaker. His chairs often reflected the influence of Queen Anne or early Georgian styles, although he also incorporated Rococo and Gothic styles, according to the Antiques Almanac.

Chair Legs

The six basic leg designs Chippendale used were the Marlborough, the late Chippendale, the lion's paw, the ball and claw, the club, and the spade. The Marlborough, the late Chippendale, and the spade were straight-legged designs, while the rest featured the cabriole leg, which curved and had a distinctive foot.

Chair Backs

The design of the chair backs varied. Depending on the function of the chair, it could have a carved or upholstered back, or a back with rungs, slats, ladders, carved panels or rails. Chairs with more fragile designs often did not survive the test of time, according to CILSS.org.

Authenticity

Chippendale designs often featured intricate carving and lattice work. Many furniture makers in England, as well as America, copied the designs. Since Chippendale never signed or marked his work, authentication of a piece can be problematic without documentation. Genuine Chippendale chairs have prices in the four to six-figure price range, according to the Antiques Almanac.

References

• Bob Brooke Communications: Chippendale
• CILSS: Antique Chippendale Chairs