Antiques dealer David Lindquist gives us a history lesson that explores the characteristics and motifs of the American Federal period of furniture and fine arts. Internationally known as the neoclassical period, it's called the Federal era in the United States and designates the period of time just after the Revolutionary War. The neoclassical style of architecture and interior design originated in France and was inspired by the classic elegance of first-century Roman objects that had recently been excavated at Pompeii and Herculaneum. The work of English cabinetmaker George Hepplewhite exemplifies the characteristics of the neoclassical style, with its use of light, curvilinear forms; painted or inlaid decoration; slender, tapering legs; and chair backs in shield and oval forms. Dating a piece of antique furniture can take a bit of detective work. Pulling back fabric covering repairs on the bottom of a chair may reveal the brand of the furniture maker and can help identify the date and region of a piece. Design elements help date a piece as well. An inlay made of multiple pieces of wood that have been scorched to create light and dark areas is typical of early period work produced on Massachusetts' eastern shore. A simple tapered chair leg dates the piece early in the period. A turned leg with a slight swell and a ball foot are important changes that place the piece near the end of the period. All the elements of the American Federal style come together to make a harmonious whole, and all the decorative arts of the neoclassical period work together beautifully. Classic simple designs, intricate workmanship and curvilinear forms work in harmony in this elegant style.
GUESTS :
David Lindquist
1213 E. Franklin St.
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Phone: 919-942-3179
Fax: 919-942-6600
Email: WHCHNC@aol.com
Website: www.citysearch.com/rdu/whitehall
Whitehall at the Villa Antiques
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