The Search for Thomas Dennis among the Artisans of Exeter

Marhamchurch Antiques presents Discovering Dennis, an exhibition and sale of late 16th- and 17th-century regional oak furniture produced by artisans working in and around Exeter, Devon, England and by the colonial New England workshop of Thomas Dennis, who emigrated from Exeter in the early 1660's. On many of the pieces can be seen distinctive design and construction methods carried by Thomas Dennis from Devon to Ipswich, Massachusetts. Viewed together, these objects document the English origins of one of the best known 17th-century American woodworking artisans.

Over two dozen examples of joined furniture will be on view at Guild Hall, Exeter, Devon, England on November 4 and 5 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. These objects fuse Continental designs with motifs and construction methods local to Devon: three-dimensionally modeled foliage, vibrant polychromy, grotesque masks and strapwork based upon the ornament prints of Flemish designers, and an enigmatic molding that appears as reliably as a signature. Each chest and cupboard reflects the movements of artisans and their ideas over a period of more than a century and across an ocean.

Contact Paul Fitzsimmons at 011 44 77790 38891 or e-mail <earlyoak@btinternet.com>. Visit Marhamchurch's Web site (www.marhamchurchantiques.com/exhibition) for further information. Catalogues are available for $20 in advance and on days of exhibition.

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