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Chinese Chippendale Sofas

CHINESE CHIPPENDALE STYLE

Like chinoiserie, which had emerged in Europe in the 17th century, antique Chinese Chippendale furniture was an appropriation of Asian design that often distilled it to stereotypes.

Thomas Chippendale published The Gentleman and Cabinet-Maker’s Director in 1754, and the widespread popularity of the book of furniture designs influenced a new style of furniture named for the English cabinetmaker. Artisans in England, the United States and Europe adapted the work illustrated in its pages. The publication of the pattern book included designs reflecting “Gothic, Chinese and Modern Taste,” with illustrations of “Chinese” chairs and cabinets featuring elaborate hand-carved latticework.

Pagoda-shaped flourishes and wood painted in the “japanned” finish that mimicked lacquer were common on these pieces, as were fretwork patterns on chair backs. The back of a chair is the easiest way to distinguish between Gothic, Rococo and Chinese Chippendale chairs, all of which typically feature broad seats and luxurious upholstery. Chippendale’s designs for “Chinese” chairs tend to favor more clean lines and less ornamentation than the other styles, with cutouts in the rails and the fretwork on the back evoking a European ideal of East Asian design.

Dark woods such as walnut and solid mahogany were commonly used, as were bamboo turnings. Cabinets for imported Chinese ceramics frequently were adorned with glazing bars, while small tea tables were detailed with angular fretwork. The style remained popular through the 18th century and into the decades that followed, even inspiring an entire room at Buckingham Palace.

Find antique Chinese Chippendale dining room chairs, side tables, case pieces and other furniture and decor on 1stDibs.

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Style: Chinese Chippendale
English Chinese Chippendale Mahogany Needlepoint Sofa, Circa 1750
English Chinese Chippendale Mahogany Needlepoint Sofa, Circa 1750

English Chinese Chippendale Mahogany Needlepoint Sofa, Circa 1750

By Joseph Aronson

Located in Charleston, SC

English Chinese Chippendale mahogany sofa with carved corner fret works, serpentine back, scrolled arms, and terminating on squared legs with connecting stretchers. Mid-18th century....

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1750s English Antique Chinese Chippendale Sofas

Chinese Chippendale Style Upholstered Settee
Chinese Chippendale Style Upholstered Settee

Chinese Chippendale Style Upholstered Settee

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Chinese Chippendale Style Geometric Leaf Upholstered Settee, on walnut legs with three cushions. 34" H x 43" W x 32" D; seat: 17.75" H. Provenance: From a New York City Collection....

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20th Century Chinese Chippendale Sofas

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Upholstery, Wood

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Chinese Chippendale sofas for sale on 1stDibs.

Find a broad range of unique Chinese Chippendale sofas for sale on 1stDibs. Many of these items were first offered in the Mid-20th Century, but contemporary artisans have continued to produce works inspired by this style. It’s true that these talented designers have at times inspired knockoffs, but our experienced specialists have partnered with only top vetted sellers to offer authentic pieces that come with a buyer protection guarantee.