The History of Hepplewhite
Posted by Donald Bayne on Jun 8th 2017
We are proud to be re-releasing a series of Hepplewhite tables that Bartley Classic Reproductions created. Not only are we re-releasing them, but we have enhanced them as well: Our Hepplewhite table project kits are more proportionate, with slimmer legs and added detail to the tabletop edges. All of our Hepplewhite table project kits are available in Cherry, African Mahogany, Walnut and Curly Maple.
Remember these project kits are made with hand selected lumber cut and ready to go with special doweling for ease of perfect alignment of your table top. Many customers have already said that our work, wood quality and advanced preparation are superior to what they’ve received in the past from Bartley. We make building it yourself possible for you!
This re-released Hepplewhite table collection of project kits includes:
- The American Hepplewhite Table – in 2 styles, with or without drawer
- The Hepplewhite Side Table – in 2 styles, with or without drawer
- The Hepplewhite Tea Table
Do You Know the History of Hepplewhite?
Named for a London designer and cabinetmaker George Hepplewhite (?-1768), the furniture originated between 1780 and 1810, during the Federal period in the United States. Hepplewhite’s work was captured after his death in his book, The Cabinet Maker and Upholsterers Guide, published by his wife in 1788. The style was neoclassical, quite popular between New England and the Carolinas.
Contrasting veneers and inlays, sometimes also called marquetry, are key stylistic features of the graceful, delicate appearance of traditional Hepplewhite furniture. The inlays often depict bellflowers or seashells or bellflowers, and it isn’t uncommon for pieces to have more than one type of wood, including mahogany, satinwood or maple for the base.
Another key differentiator from other works of the period and before is the straight legs, which can be square or tapered. Reeded or fluted edges, designed to imitate Classical columns of Greek and Roman architecture, are not uncommon.
Hepplewhite feet are simple, often a rectangular spade foot or tapered arrow foot. We have emulated much of this look and feel with the Bartley Classic Reproductions’ models and our enhancements.