Furniture designed by William Kent, 17th/18th century

William Kent was born in Bridlington, Yorkshire, England in 1685. He began his career as a sign and coach painter in London, where he developed his skills as an artist. He later studied under the painter and engraver, Godfrey Kneller, and began working as a scene painter for the theatre. In 1709, Kent won a scholarship to study in Rome, where he spent several years studying classical architecture, painting, and sculpture. He returned to England in 1719 and quickly established himself as one of the leading designers of the time.

Kent's designs were heavily influenced by the classical art he had studied in Italy, and he quickly gained a reputation for his innovative and distinctive style. He was a key figure in the development of the Georgian style of architecture, which was popular in England during the reigns of George I and George II.

Kent's work as an more... architect included the design of the Horse Guards in Whitehall, London, which was completed in 1750, two years after his death. He also designed a number of country houses, including Holkham Hall in Norfolk and Chiswick House in London. In addition to his architectural work, Kent was also a celebrated interior designer and furniture designer. He was known for his use of luxurious materials and his attention to detail, and his designs were highly sought after by the aristocracy and wealthy landowners of the time.

Kent was also a pioneer of landscape gardening, and he created a number of innovative and influential garden designs. He was a key figure in the development of the English landscape garden style, which emphasized naturalistic design and the creation of picturesque views. William Kent died in London in 1748 and was buried in St. Anne's Church, Soho. His influence on English art and design was profound, and his work continues to be celebrated and studied today. less...