Thomas Sheraton (1751-1806)

Sheraton, following on from Hepplewhite, was the most influential designer of 18th century English furniture.

Although he described himself as a cabinet-maker, no furniture made by him has ever been identified. His fame rests on the design manuals that he had published, especially The Cabinet-Maker and Upholsterer’s Drawing-Book (issued in parts, 1791–94). Sheraton’s style is marked by elegance and simplicity, with an emphasis on simple outlines, and a preference for inlay decoration, reeded legs, and classical motifs.