Goddard and Townsend

Goddard House Newport Rhode Island

Goddard and Townsend were two prominent 18th-century American furniture-making families, known for their distinctive style of furniture that has come to be highly prized among collectors and museums. Originating from Newport, Rhode Island, the Goddard and Townsend families are celebrated for their exceptional craftsmanship and the significant influence they had on the American furniture style of their era.

History

The Goddard and Townsend families were at the forefront of the American colonial furniture movement, particularly noted for their work from about 1750 to 1790. The families were interconnected through marriage and business partnerships, which facilitated a shared style and high-quality craftsmanship. Their furniture is characterized by the use of rich materials, intricate designs, and the innovative use of block-and-shell carving, a motif that became synonymous with Newport furniture.

Design and Craftsmanship

The furniture produced by the Goddard and Townsend workshops is distinguished by several hallmark features. These include the elegant and fluid design, the use of high-quality mahogany, and the distinctive block-and-shell carving. The block-front design, where the front of the piece is divided into three distinct sections with the center section recessed, is a notable characteristic of their work. This design not only added visual interest but also demonstrated the craftsmen's skill in working with wood.

Block-and-Shell Carving

The block-and-shell motif is perhaps the most iconic feature of Goddard and Townsend furniture. This design involves a concave shell carving set within a convex block of wood, creating a striking contrast and depth. This motif was often used on the knees of tables and chairs, as well as on the drawers and doors of chests and cabinets.

Legacy

The legacy of the Goddard and Townsend families extends far beyond their time, with their furniture pieces now considered masterpieces of American colonial art. Their work is highly sought after by collectors and can be found in the collections of major museums, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. The craftsmanship and aesthetic appeal of their furniture have made the Goddard and Townsend name synonymous with the pinnacle of American colonial furniture-making.

Notable Works

Some of the most celebrated pieces of Goddard and Townsend furniture include the block-front chest, the kneehole desk, and the claw-and-ball foot highboy. These pieces not only showcase the exquisite craftsmanship and design but also the functionality and innovation of 18th-century American furniture.

Conclusion

Goddard and Townsend's contribution to American furniture design and craftsmanship has left an indelible mark on the history of art and design. Their work exemplifies the pinnacle of colonial American furniture-making, combining functionality with unparalleled beauty and craftsmanship. The legacy of the Goddard and Townsend families continues to be celebrated and revered by collectors, historians, and art enthusiasts around the world.