Hepplewhite (1785-1800)

Designers must find a new style every few years to keep the public buying. By the 1780s, heavy, carved, dark wooden pieces with curved legs and backs had been in vogue for several decades. So, it was time for a change. The Hepplewhite period in the United States was from about 1785 to 1800. Once again, the period was named for a cabinetmaker. The Cabinet Maker and Upholsterer’s Guide was published in 1788 in England by A. Hepplewhite and Company. George Hepplewhite had died, but his wife, Alice, continued the business, and published the book. The volume pictured designs that were in style, most of them inspired by the work of the Adam brothers, James and Robert. The Adams were architects. After they had designed large rooms with light-colored walls and restrained classical decorations, they decided to design a style of furniture that would complement the design of the rooms. These designs became popular with the general public.