George Hepplewhite (d. 1786), for whom this style is named, was a late 18th century cabinetmaker.  He, like Chippendale and Thomas Sheraton, was one of the “big three” classic English furniture makers. 

 

Hepplewhite is best known as a graceful, elegant, refined style of furniture.  Delicate, light design featuring straight lines, tapered legs and light-colored woods, were hallmarks of this style.  Design received ornamentation from paint and exotic, contrasting wood inlays used on the piece. A classically Hepplewhite design is the shield-shaped chair back. Hepplewhite also helped popularize sideboards and short chest of drawers, often with serpentine or bow fronts.

 

Following his death, Hepplewhite’s widow published “The Cabinet-Maker and Upholsterer’s Guide” in 1788. Containing about 300 of his designs, it was enormously influential, spreading throughout Europe and its colonial possessions as a style setter.  The guide depicted all manner of furnishings and decorative accessories. It was not until years after his death that his designs started to receive recognition.

 

Original Hepplewhite furniture is rare, but excellent design and craftsmanship in master cabinet and furniture makers have kept his style alive and very much appreciated.