By Anne Gilbert
In the post American Revolution years up to the early 19th century 1780-1820s) Americas finest craftsmen created what has come to be known as “American Federal” furniture. It was adapted freely from English designs by Chippendale, Sheraton and Hepplewhite. For the growing wealthy classes quality and fine design was important.
While the finest examples are in museums, many important pieces still fetch top dollar when maker’s names are attached. However, great examples
may still be awaiting discovery if you know what to look for, far from their origins.
Consider that during those decades Philadelphia became the center of culture, attracting the great thinkers of the day, as well as the finest artists and craftsmen. The finest pieces of furniture were custom-made from native American woods, along with inlaid stringing, banding and decorations. Veneers of satinwood, tulip wood and various fruit woods were used on what is known as “high style” furniture. Among the woods used for inlays were satinwood, boxwood and ebony.
Today’s furniture experts are often able to identify not only the market but the region where Federal furniture was made by the type of woods used, style of carving and the patterns of inlays, stringing and banding.
CLUES: Unfortunately reproductions and fakes abound. Reproductions were made during the 1876 American Centennial. They are being collected and are affordable. During the 1920s, 30s, there was a great revival of collector interest in Federal period furniture. Often repros were sold as authentic with faked lables.
Feel underneath tables and the backs of cabinet pieces, they should be rough and unfinished. Look at saw marks on dovetails and other exposed areas. They should be cross hatched from the use of the pit saws. Circular and other saw marks would indicate the piece was made after 1830, after the Federal period. Don’t get carried away by the sight of an eagle inlay. They can be ordered from woodcraft catalogues and added to new pieces, upping
the price.
Research can lead to discoveries.
PHOTO CAPTION: AMERICAN CHIPPENDALE PEMBROKE TABLE
PHOTO CREDIT: SOTHEBYS AUCTIONS
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