Colonial silversmiths were skilled at their craft, but many employed other talents! Read about these surprisingly versatile artisans, the silver objects they created, and the other interests they pursued.
Johannes Heuvel's 'The Cabinetmaker in Eighteenth-Century Williamsburg' is a meticulously researched and richly detailed exploration of the life and work of cabinetmakers in the bustling colonial town of Williamsburg. Through a combination of archival research and close analysis of surviving pieces, Heuvel paints a vivid picture of the social, economic, and cultural factors that influenced the craftsmanship and design of furniture in this period. The book is written in a clear and engaging style, making it accessible to both scholars and general readers interested in early American material culture. Heuvel's attention to detail and contextual understanding provide a valuable contribution to the study of colonial craftsmanship and the development of American identity. Johannes Heuvel, a renowned expert in early American furniture, brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to his study of cabinetmakers in Williamsburg. His background as a furniture maker himself gives him a unique perspective on the craft and allows him to offer insightful analysis of the techniques and artistry of the period. Heuvel's expertise shines through in his thorough examination of the social and economic factors that shaped the work of cabinetmakers in colonial America, making 'The Cabinetmaker in Eighteenth-Century Williamsburg' a must-read for anyone interested in the history of furniture making. I highly recommend this book to scholars, students, and enthusiasts of early American craftsmanship.
The range of activities of this tradesperson runs the gamut from barbering and hairdressing to the design and fabrication of sought-after wigs, or perukes. By 1764 a French catalog shows 115 wig styles, "the distinguishing badge of gentle folk."