Glossary
A four-lobed decorative form
The name given to the furniture style popularized under the reign of Queen Anne (1702-1714, characterized by the use of walnut, cabriole legs, acanthus leaves and shell motifs
A long, narrow rectangular dining table, with stretchers positioned close to the floor. Originally used by religious communities in their dining halls which were named refectories
A Neo-Classical style of furniture named after George IV's Regency as Prince of Wales during the period 1811-20. Taking influences from Egypt, Rome, Greece and China it reflects an elegant opulence. Notable is the use of rosewood and brass inlay not found in previous eras
Relief decoration hammered or chased on a sheet of metal from the reverse side
A mid 18th century style whose origins are accredited to the silversmith J. A. Meissonier. Characteristic features are natural forms, intentionally asymmetric designs and ‘C' and ‘S' scrolls. The style was championed in England by William Hogarth (1697-1764), St Martin's Lane Academy, Thomas Chippendale and John Linnell (1729-1796)
A circular ornamental design
A type of square, tapering furniture leg typical of the Regency period, resembling a curved sword known as a sabre
A horizontal structure below the seat of a chair which unites the tops of the chair legs
English cabinet maker (1751-1806). In 1791 he published The Cabinet Maker's and Upholsterer's Drawing Book in four volumes, The Cabinet Dictionary in 1803 and Cabinet Maker, Upholsterer and General Artist's Encyclopedia in 1805. This delicate style is characterized by elegant lines, contrasting veneers and neo-classical motifs. Sheraton furniture is often associated with light woods such as satinwood which was then painted with flowers and swags. This style was revived in the Edwardian period
A chair back which takes the outline of a shield; associated with Adam and Hepplewhite designs
An occasional table with two hinged flaps designed to stand behind a sofa
A square tapered foot resembling a spade, popularized in the 18th century
A tapered leg of round or square shape where the bottom section is splayed to the outside, giving the impression that it is buckling under the weight of the top
A decorative corner bracket
The vertical central support in a chair back
Strengthening and stabilizing rail connecting chairs or table legs
Decorative fine metal or wood lines inlaid in veneer