George Smith was a London furniture designer and maker who was active during the Regency and Early Victorian periods. He is best known for his elegant and refined furniture, which was often inspired by classical antiquity and the French Empire style.
Smith was born in London in c.1786. He is thought to have been apprenticed to a cabinetmaker, and he may have also studied at the Royal Academy of Arts. In 1806, he set up his own workshop in Soho, London.
Smith's furniture was characterized by its clean lines, delicate proportions, and restrained ornamentation. He often used a variety of woods, including mahogany, rosewood, and satinwood, and he frequently incorporated inlays and marquetry. Smith's furniture was also known for its comfort and functionality.
Smith's furniture was popular with the wealthy and fashionable, and he received commissions from many prominent clients, including the Prince Regent and the
more...
Duke of Wellington. He also exhibited his furniture at the Royal Academy of Arts and other major exhibitions. Some of Smith's notable pieces of furniture include a mahogany library table, made in 1817, which is now in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum; a rosewood and satinwood sofa, made in 1820, which is now in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art and a mahogany and marquetry writing desk, made in 1825, which is now in the Frick Collection
Smith died in London in 1826 at the age of 40.
less...