Duncan Phyfe
Duncan Phyfe left an indelible mark on American furniture and design. Born in 1768, Phyfe moved his family from Scotland to Albany, N.Y., in 1784 to apprentice as a cabinetmaker. His most recognized and imitated works — a combination of English and French Neoclassical dubbed “American Empire” — are characterized by his trademark acanthus-leaf carvings, Greek-and-Roman decorative motifs, and brass-tipped caster feet sitting below turned legs or pedestals.
Catering to the popular tastes of the time, his style changed with the whims of his socialite clients. His later work is considerably heavier than his earlier work and is made mostly of Redwood, not his beloved Cuban Mahogany. His exquisitely veneered early work in the style of English furniture maker Thomas Sheraton, has earned him a place as one of America’s greatest cabinetmakers, but it’s his client-driven Empire designs for which he’s best remembered.
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Reader Comments:
After much research on furniture that I received from my grandmother who is 99, I believe that I may have 3 pieces from Duncan Phyfe in original condition with original coatings. There was a confirmed Duncan Phyfe dining table with them but it was sold separately over 40 years ago. I have a high-boy and a dresser with mirror on pivoting joint and vanity with pivoting mirror. All three pieces matching in veneer walnut with a sticker on back that says line number 112. I understand that later works used Mahogany so I think these may be from close to 1800. If I provide a picture could anyone tell me for sure?