Mr. J. Stokes Complete Cabinet Maker & Upholsterer's Guide was in print from 1829 into the early part of the 20th Century. That's saying something. Sure, Stokes borrowed some recipes from a few of the big time furniture guys of the 18th Century but then everybody was doing that jig. It's the longevity of Stokes that tells of the acceptance and importance of his book. Over the century there were a number of edits and editions, a few of which I have. The later editions focused on the recipes for finishing, dyeing along with suggestions for upholstery and decoration of rooms and furnishings but no color plates. This early edition addressed design and upholstery matters a bit more closely with these sparkling plates.
But the 1829 has eluded my grasp up until now. Heh, Heh, Heh. Being the bottom feeder that I am (see Hill Billy Handfishing for reference on bottom feeders), I've been waiting for one at the right price and in the right condition to come my way. This one has been rebound in a modern bland red binding which I can tolerate for a few moments but what matters is the innards. Good stuff.
See all that nice color? This was hand tinted Empire style furniture. Maybe not your cuppa tea but pretty to look at all the same. You know all the furniture you see in repro rooms that looks all dull and drab and faded? Take a gander at what it was supposed to look like back in the day. Them folks was people who liked to partay!
I can't wait to get my hands on this one. For the nonce, you can check out the Internet archive edition here.
Yes, I admit it. I have a problem with books.
Till next, Gary
