Chippendale – History & Style

Chippendale Mirror by Cooper Classics
Chippendale Mirror by Cooper Classics

The second half of the 18th (around 1750-1780) century brought about a change in furniture design. It was a period that was influenced by the ornate carvings and trim of Eastern furniture.

This period in furniture design and history was named after English cabinet maker, Thomas Chippendale, because of his published book of designs.

Succeeding his father, who was a chair maker, Chippendale was the first (and most famous) of a group of English cabinet makers to develop and embrace this new style.

Chippendale focused on creating lines that were graceful and sweeping.

The Chippendale Mirror by Cooper Classics features a beveled mirror and a frame finished in a rustic mahogany finish. The frame boasts the imaginative and ornate cut-outs that led to the period’s popularity.

There are many similarities between the Chippendale, Hepplewhite and Sheraton schools of design, although each has a few distinct differences.

Chippendale’s designs extensively featured curved lines and broken scroll depictions. Chippendale’s work was most-notably represented by his chairs, console tables, lamp-stands and bed frames.

Chippendale furniture is great for modern applications because the curvature is a bit muted and compatible with modern lines and designs.

If you’re one to appreciate traditional furniture, but would like a more approachable style than, say, Victorian, look into Chippendale style furniture.