Description
Book Synopsis: In Plain Sight: Discovering the Furniture of Nathaniel Gould is the stunning result of happy accident and indefatigable, dedicated research. In the field of early American furniture made in Massachusetts, Nathaniel Gould has loomed as something of a mystery – believed to have been prolific, handsomely skilled, and exceptionally enterprising, yet considered elusive because of a scarcity of known works, lack of documentation, and difficulties of attribution. Accident – the unexpected discovery of Gould's day books and account book in the collection of the Massachusetts Historical Society – and analysis – painstaking and inductive – have produced an invaluable, multifaceted case study.This book establishes Gould unquestionably as Salem's leading cabinetmaker before and during the period of the American Revolution. He made substantial and often expensive furniture, including case pieces of bombé form embellished with carving. The number of works that can be attributed to Gould remains small, but the foundation for increasingly assured connoisseurship lies within these pages and Gould's archival records. The scale of his workshop, his impressively large, diverse clientele, and his successes in Salem's furniture export trade attest to his achievements as an entrepreneur.
However, this book illuminates not only a particular individual, but the Salem/Boston/New England spheres in which Gould operated during a tumultuous time in American history. The scrupulously recorded notations in his ledgers are precious clues to emerging concepts of style and taste, cultural mores, business practices, socio-economic circumstances, and familial histories with local, regional, and national relevance.
In Plain Sight presents a choice array of forms confidently assigned to Gould's shop, and makes accessible the ledgers themselves, meticulously analyzed and interpreted to facilitate present and ongoing scholarship regarding Nathaniel Gould, Salem, early New England furniture, and colonial America.
Details
Are you a fan of early American furniture? Do you crave to uncover the hidden gems of Massachusetts craftsmanship? Look no further than "In Plain Sight: Discovering the Furniture of Nathaniel Gould". This extraordinary book delves into the life and works of Nathaniel Gould, a mysterious and talented cabinetmaker who left a lasting mark on Salem during the American Revolution.
Unearthing the secret behind Gould's success was not an easy task. His works were scarce, documentation was lacking, and attributing pieces to him proved challenging. However, through a fortunate accident and meticulous research, this book presents an invaluable case study that establishes Gould as Salem's leading cabinetmaker of his time.
Inside the pages of "In Plain Sight", you'll find a treasure trove of Gould's magnificent creations. From expertly carved bombé case pieces to other luxurious and expensive items, his craftsmanship will leave you in awe. Although the number of attributed works may be small, this book paves the way for a deeper understanding of Gould's unique style and the archive records that shed light on his workshop and clientele.
But this book is more than just an exploration of one man's talent. It takes you back in time to the vibrant Salem/Boston/New England spheres during a crucial period in American history. Through Gould's meticulously recorded ledgers, you gain a glimpse into evolving styles, cultural nuances, business practices, socio-economic circumstances, and the intertwined familial histories of colonial America.
Don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of Nathaniel Gould and traverse the rich landscapes of Salem, early New England furniture, and beyond. "In Plain Sight: Discovering the Furniture of Nathaniel Gould" is a must-have for collectors, historians, and enthusiasts alike. Get your copy now and unravel the secrets of a true American craftsman.
Click here to explore "In Plain Sight: Discovering the Furniture of Nathaniel Gould" and embark on a journey through early American furniture like never before.
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