Furniture of the Olden Time

An illustrated, item-by-item study surveys the evolution, forms, and decorative treatments of domestic furniture across successive styles. Organized by piece type—chests, bureaus, beds, cupboards, desks, chairs, tables and related fittings—it describes construction, materials, ornamentation and functional variations. Numerous illustrations support accounts of regional and stylistic differences, typical household uses, and shifts in taste over time. Additional chapters treat musical instruments, lighting, clocks and architectural fittings, and the work concludes with a glossary and indexes to aid identification and reference.