Sheraton Furniture

Thomas Sheraton (1751-1806), for whom this style of furniture is named, was an English cabinetmaker and furniture designer of the late 18th and early 19th century. Like Chippendale and Hepplewhite, Sheraton’s influence on furniture style cannot be denied.

Sheraton was a prolific writer. His most famous publication is ” The Cabinetmaker and Upholsterer’s Drawing-Book”, published in four volumes between 1791 and 1794, containing furniture designs, drawings and instructions that were eagerly adopted by craftsmen in England and in the United States. He also published “The Cabinet Directory” in 1803, outlining instructions for cabinet and chair making, as well as another design book in 1805.  Sheraton was a well-trained cabinet maker and taught cabinetry in London.  Known for his superb drafting abilities and became an outstanding teacher.

The Sheraton style is characterized by its use of clean lines, symmetry and inlay decoration.   Lightweight and rectilinear, Sheraton furnishings are typically crafted in lighter, brighter woods – satinwood, for example- and in a bow to a more Neoclassical form with long, skinny legs. The framework of Sheraton furniture is more visible to the eye, highlighting his interest in and the appeal of classical architecture which he learned as a young apprentice.