16791
Accession Number
17167
Author
Williams, Marc A.
Author Affiliation
Smithsonian Institution. Conservation Analytical Laboratory
Title Of Article Chaper
Furniture Construction Techniques
Title Of Journal Book
Antique review
Volume
13
Issue
1
Pages
27-31
Language Of Text
English
Literature Type
Serial
Literature Level
Analytic
Abstract
The author describes how different materials are put together to make a piece of furniture. Of the four possible wood grain orientations in a join, the parallel side grain to side grain is the strongest and is least likely to suffer deterioration caused by wood movement. End grain to end grain, side grain to end grain, and perpendicular side grain to side grain orientations are also described. The major types of joints used in furniture making are reviewed. The introduction of the dovetail joint allowed the cabinetmaking profession to develop by making case construction possible. Most joins are held together with either adhesives or fasteners such as nails, screws, hinges, and pegs. These are described. Veneering is a special type of joinery that results in a very strong join if the adhesive is applied properly. However veneers are very susceptible to severe environmental conditions. A description of the marquetry and boulle veneer construction techniques is given. This is the sixth in a series of articles on furniture conservation.
Keywords
mitre;butt;lap;mortise and tenon;tongue and groove;spline; rabbet;dado; dovetail;dowel;veneer;construction; wood; substrate; ground work;French polishing
pub_id
16791