Chairs

For the sake of convenience and clearness we shall consider first arm-chairs and then side chairs. What is said of the legs will apply to both sorts. They were square and tapered (Key X, 1 and 3), often with spade feet or block feet, or round and fluted (Key X, 2) with turned or moulded feet, and usually some form of moulded ornamentation about the ancle. Back legs were either straight and slanted somewhat or curved backward. The more typical chairs were made without stretchers, but stretchers were, nevertheless, used (Key X, 1 and 3), and sometimes the front stretcher was recessed and joined the side (Key X, 1) stretchers instead of the front legs. Stretchers were also set saltire wise (Key X, 3). Seats varied in shape. In upholstered arm-chairs they were generally nearly square with a slight taper towards the back. Some armchair seats, however, were curved outward in front and at the sides were rounded towards (Key X, 2) the uprights of the back. Seat rails were straight and carved, painted or covered with upholstery. In some Adam chairs, especially side chairs, we find the drop seat.

Arms ordinarily curved gently from the back (Key X, 2), came well forward horizontally to where the hand would naturally rest, made a sharp angle and then curved forward, either to join the upper part of the front legs or the side of the seat frame. Backs of upholstered arm-chairs were square, with occasionally an exceedingly slight arching curve at the top, round or oval (Key X, 2). Arm-chairs with carved backs were similar in design to side chairs. The characteristic Adam back for side chairs was either wheel shaped (Key X, 1 and 3) or oval (Key X, 2), the latter being an adaptation of the former. The back legs either projected above the seat and formed the supports of the wheel or oval or a solid piece of wood, tenoned into the back of the seat rail, formed the support. Chairs of both types, though exceedingly graceful, were structurally weak. The centre of the wheel or oval back was a circular or oval patera from which the spokes radiated. The outer rim was often finely fluted all the way round (KeyX, 2).

Stools

Stools coincided with the contour and design of chairs.

Settees Or Sofas

The same thing may be said of sofas and settees in general. There was little structural or decorative difference.

Window Seats And Daybeds

The window seats designed by the Adams followed the same general contour of those made in the Chippendale style, having upright, curved over ends and no backs. The chief difference lay in the greater refinement and delicacy of line, the usually round, fluted legs and the embellishment wrought with characteristic motifs. These window seats had four, six or eight legs. Daybeds were the same, except that one end lacked the upright support above the seat.

Bedsteads

Bedsteads of Adam type are not plentiful but were designed with slender fluted posts with square plinths or bases. They are of such rare occurrence that it will serve little practical purpose to discuss the few known examples.