The Old Furniture Book, with a Sketch of Past Days and Ways

A comprehensive illustrated survey of antique furniture and related domestic objects, presenting the evolution of form, ornament, and construction from early oak chests and paneling through Dutch, English, and French styles. It explains materials and techniques such as veneering, marquetry, ormolu, and lacquer, and examines emblematic furniture types and periods—Chippendale, Sheraton, Hepplewhite, Adam, Empire—alongside musical instruments, clocks, and hardware. Chapters pair descriptive text with figures and historic room examples to aid identification, dating, and appreciation of design, craftsmanship, and changing domestic tastes.