Beschreibung:

HEPPLEWHITE, Alice (fl. 18th century). The Cabinet-Maker and Upholsterer's Guide. London: I. and J. Taylor, 1788. First edition of the rarest of the 18th-century furniture pattern books. Considered one of "the big three" furniture books alongside Sheraton and Chippendale, this work was published by Alice Hepplewhite after the death of her husband George, who is often credited as the originator of this style. None of George Hepplewhite’s furniture survives, and little is known about his life—leading some to suspect that Alice is the true mind behind this style. ESTC N43593. Folio (352 x 277mm). 123 engraved plates, one double-page engraving numbered 124-125 (a number of small marginal repairs, larger repaired tears affecting about 5 plates; light toning and dustsoiling). Contemporary calf with gilt-stamped border (rebacked, with repairs to corners).