What is the meaning of the furniture term Thirtteen State Tracery?

Answer:
Thirteen State Tracery is a geometric tracery pattern commonly found in 18th century English and American secretaries, particularly in the Chippendale and Hepplewhite styles. This decorative motif is distinctly based on a Chinese influence.

During the 18th century, there was a widespread fascination with all things oriental in Europe and America. This trend, known as chinoiserie, led to the incorporation of various Chinese design elements in Western furniture and decorative arts. One such design element was the Chinese trellis pattern, characterized by interlacing geometric shapes forming a lattice-like structure.

Thirteen State Tracery takes its inspiration from this Chinese trellis pattern. It features a repeated arrangement of thirteen interlaced arches or curves, forming a regular geometric grid. This pattern is typically executed in contrasting wood, often using lighter and darker woods to achieve a visually appealing effect.

The presence of Thirteen State Tracery in secretaries (also known as desks or writing cabinets) suggests that it was considered an appropriate decoration for furniture meant for intellectual pursuits. Secretaries of this period were typically used for writing, organizing papers, and storing valuable items, so the inclusion of this intricate tracery pattern added an element of sophistication and refinement to these pieces.

Thirteen State Tracery represents a fusion of Chinese design influences with the Western cabinet-making traditions of the 18th century. It showcases the cross-cultural exchange and artistic creativity that characterized this period, reflecting the fascination with exoticism and the desire to incorporate foreign motifs in interior design and furniture production.

Geometric tracery pattern in 18th century English and American secretaries, based on a Chinese motive.
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