This comprehensive yet highly browsable reference offers concise definitions, clear line drawings, and photographs of the elements and features that make up American furniture of all types. Written by an expert furniture maker and woodworker with over 50 years of experience, this is the most extensive and modern resource of its kind. Covering historical and contemporary furniture design, the alphabetized terms include individual elements (such as cartouche, pediment, and hood), types of furniture, and styles of design. Detailed line drawings and photos of beautiful museum pieces augment the text. Informative sidebars throughout delve into the passion and beauty behind fine furniture's artistic energy - lives of notable American furniture designers and craftsmen, guided views of masterworks, help in understanding certain styles, and more. This an invaluable tool for furniture makers, antique dealers and buyers, and anyone interested in American furniture.