Thomas Chippendale – Son of Otley, Cabinet Maker and Forefather of Interior Design
This enigmatic, uniquely talented man was born three hundred years ago in Otley in June 1718, the only son of John and Mary Chippendale (Nee Drake).
Baptised in All Saints, Otley on 5th June 1718, he learned his initial trade from his father and later at the workshop of Richard Wood in York. He attended Prince Henry’s Grammar School, Otley, and later moved to London. In May 1748 he married Catharine Redshaw, with whom he fathered 5 sons and 4 daughters.
By 1745 he had published his book ‘The Gentleman and Cabinet Maker Director’ still available today with 200 plates of original drawings.
He developed his work initially in the anglicised Rococo style and, from 1760 onwards, the neo-classical style in satinwood, rosewood, purple heart ebony and ivory. The commencement of modern interior design.
Contributed by Dudley Park, Yorkshire Blue Badge Guide
For further information see the Visit Otley website
