CHIPPENDALE & THE PAXTON STYLE: The Influence of The Gentleman & Cabinet-Maker’s Director with Martin Purslow

Thomas Chippendale rose from humble Yorkshire origins to supply new, integrated interior ‘styles’ to both the established aristocracy and by association in The Cabinet Maker’s Director, to the style conscious nouveau-riche of the 18th century.

Using images, several original 1750s plate engravings, and even a small piece of Cuban mahogany from his workshop, this talk looks at Chippendale’s design practice as illustrated by his seminal Director and his documented commissions, including Paxton House, Scotland where his designs reinforced the status, and aesthetic sensibilities of his client.

MARTIN PURSLOW, CEO, National Trust of Australia (Victoria) was former Director of the National Gallery of Scotland’s first ever outstation, Paxton House operated by the Paxton Trust. With a background in design and architectural history, antiques restoration and retail and heritage management, he is an expert on Chippendale furniture and Scottish Regency furniture.

‘The Dining Room’, Paxton House, Berwickshire, Scotland Decorated and furnished by Chippendale Haig & Co, 1774-6