Jack Metcalfe examines the contents of Thomas Chippendale’s ground-breaking Director, first published in 1754, that originally established the ‘Chippendale brand’. This led Jack to uncovering the links with a fellow neighbouring furniture maker, Pierre Langlois, operating only a mile from Chippendale’s workshop and whose marquetry designs echoed many motifs found within the Director. In this book, Jack explores the possible union between the two furniture makers. This allowed Jack to further identify and reveal the marquetry team, both by name and nationality, who had performed all the marquetry work on Chippendale’s own commissions that were to follow. In addition, Jack examines the role of the man who cast all the brass mounts attached to Chippendale’s marquetry commissions.

Jack’s book reveals insights into the furniture industry of 18th-century London with an engaging narrative and scholarly historical links. Jack’s passion for the topic is evident throughout the book, complimented by his expert knowledge, gained from his unique training in the techniques of Chippendale’s marquetry. This book also provides proof that his book, Chippendale’s classic Marquetry Revealed, was in almost every way accurate in the statements declared in its narrative.