Definitions and Words that would be used in an Appraisal Document to describe a Chippendale Mahogany armed dining room chair.
Crest Rail
Ornamental carving at the top of a chair back. Are often carved and can be scroll-shaped, arched, and or pierced.
Ear
Top corner of a chair frame.
Lancet arch
Design feature of the back of the chair between the crest rail and the shoe. A narrow and pointed arch favored as a Gothic Revival motif.
Pierced splat
Outside edge of the design including the lancet arch.
Stile
The upright of a frame or panel in furniture. Upright or post on a chair.
Quatrefoil
Four-cusped figures in architectural tracery. A stylized four-leafed flower contained in a circle. A four-leaved clover used in ornament.
Shoe
The projection at the back of a seat rail of a chair designed to receive the bottom of the splat. Also the disk under the foot of a chair to prevent it damaging the carpet.
Slip Seat
Sitting surface made of several kinds of materials, cushions, weaving, or wood.
Knee
The bulging part of a cabriole leg, the knee of any leg of furniture.
Cabriole leg
The cabriole leg curves outward at the knee and tapers inward at the ankle in a reversed-S line. The word derives from the French ‘cabriole’ - a goat’s leap - and the cabriole leg resembles a goat’s leg. This style of leg reached England during the reign of William and Mary and remained in favor until the late 18th century. From the simple, early form with its curved shape and protruding knee, the cabriole became increasingly elaborate. Under the influence of Chippendale, it became heavily decorated with elaborate carving.
Claw-and-ball
Carved foot in the form of a claw grasping a round ball. Often found at the end of a cabriole leg. More expensive feature than a pad foot. Introduced into England late 17th century. A characteristic of the Queen Anne and Chippendale period. Much favored by Chippendale. The claw-and-ball foot probably originated in China.