One of a Pair of George III Chinoiserie Chippendale Chairs with spade feet Mackinnon Fine Furniture Collection
We are continuing our Friday tradition where we take a close look at the feet on pieces of furniture in our collection to explore the different styles and motifs that were popular throughout the 18th century.
Today we are focusing on the spade foot: this form derives inspiration from its name, the spade, and is formed in the shape of a block that tapers from the top to the bottom. The form was popularised by Thomas Chippendale and continued to be popular throughout the second half of the 18th century with Robert Adam, George Hepplewhite, Thomas Sheraton and other contemporary designers. In the leading image, a square tapered blind fret carved leg with scrolled brackets terminates in a moulded version of the spade foot. Have a look below for more examples of furniture with spade feet in our collection.
A pair of George III polychrome decorated satinwood pier tables with spade feet Mackinnon Fine Furniture Collection
A George III Marquetry Harewood Card Table with spade feet Mackinnon Fine Furniture Collection
A George III Mahogany Armchair with spade feet Mackinnon Fine Furniture Collection
A George III Satinwood Console Table with spade feet Mackinnon Fine Furniture Collection
The Source 