Drawing for a table

The drawing depicts a pier or sideboard table with either marble or mahogany top, the frame and legs presumably intended to be either gilt or painted. It is executed in Thomas Chippendale senior's characteristically free style, with a subtle use of wash to create shade and perspective. Two versions are shown either side of the central ram's mask, and on both versions the outer leg is canted at forty-five degrees to the frame. The style is classical rather than rococo and suggests a date of about 1760-65. The drawing has similarities with pl. LXI of the 1762 Gentleman and Cabinet-Maker's Director. This is one of seven drawings extracted from an album assembled by the Toronto businessman, Alexander Manning (1819-1903). He had emigrated from Ireland and arrived in Toronto in 1834. A carpenter by training, Manning became one of the most successful builders and property developers in Toronto and was also active in local politics, serving twice as mayor in 1873 and 1885. In later life he became a philanthropist and patron of the arts, but the drawings presumably relate to his professional interests as a builder. It is not known how Manning acquired the drawings, and their provenance prior to his ownership is unknown.

This item is owned by The Chippendale Society. Explore the Society’s website and collections by clicking the external link below.