Definition

Proper noun: * Thomas Chippendale: An 18th-century British furniture designer and cabinetmaker. He is historically significant for publishing a book of his furniture designs, "The Gentleman and Cabinet-Maker's Director" (1754), which greatly influenced furniture styles (Chippendale style) in Britain and America during his lifetime and beyond.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • The museum has an original chair made by Thomas Chippendale.
  • The auction house authenticated the desk as being from the workshop of Thomas Chippendale.
  • Thomas Chippendale's designs are characterized by their elegant proportions and intricate carving.

Advanced Usage

• The term "Chippendale" is commonly used adjectivally to describe furniture made in his style or period, even if not from his workshop.
  • They furnished the drawing room with Chippendale chairs and a mahogany table.
• The style is often subdivided, such as "Chinese Chippendale" (featuring latticework and fretwork) or "Gothic Chippendale" (featuring pointed arches and tracery).

Variants and Related Words

• Chippendale (adj.): Pertaining to the furniture style of Thomas Chippendale.
  • a Chippendale mirror
• Chippendale (n.): A piece of furniture made in the Chippendale style.
  • This Chippendale is a fine example of 18th-century craftsmanship.

Synonyms

• Cabinetmaker
• Furniture designer
• Ébéniste (a French term for a cabinetmaker working with veneers)

Related Terms and Context

• Chippendale style: The distinctive furniture style associated with Thomas Chippendale, often featuring rococo, Chinese, or Gothic motifs, cabriole legs, and ball-and-claw feet.
• The Gentleman and Cabinet-Maker's Director: The influential pattern book published by Thomas Chippendale in 1754.
• 18th-century furniture: The broader historical period and category to which his work belongs.

Noun

1. a British cabinetmaker remembered for his graceful designs (especially of chairs) which influenced his contemporaries (1718-1779)