Chair, mid-18th century. Artist unknown, Mexico. Wood, cloth: 47" x 20" x 18". Gift of Gilbert M. Denman, Jr.		5 of 11
		MEXICAN CHIPPENDALE uring the 18th century, fine Mexican furniture was heavily influenced by French and English shapes and design motifs. Thomas Chippendale’s publication, The Gentleman and the Cabinet Maker’s Director (1754), became popular in New Spain and markedly influenced the household furnishings of aristocratic homes. This chair is an excellent example of the so-called Mexican Chippendale style, characterized by cabriole legs and ending in claw-and-ball motif supports. The calligraphic carving on the back of this chair is reminiscent of Moorish design and Spanish religious monograms.