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damask Fabric woven from silk, linen, or cotton with the decoration formed from the contrasting warp and weft threads. Source: Antiques Price Guide 2004, Judith Miller ISBN -7894-9550-3

davenport A large parlour sofa and, in the UK, a small writing desk with drawers. Source: Antiques Price Guide 2004, Judith Miller ISBN -7894-9550-3

Davenport desk These small writing desks most often feature a sloping top, brass galleries, a set of drawers on one side and false drawer fronts on the other. It is believed that the famous furniture making firm, Gillows of London, first created the desk around 1790 for a Captain Davenport de Lamerie, Paul - Paul de Lamerie (1688-1751) - The most celebrated silversmith in history who was primarily responsible for England's emergence as the world's leader in important silver production. His work, characterized by technical superiority and ingenious design, was commissioned by English nobility and Russian aristocrats.

Decorative Details Click on Image to Enlarge!

Delft Earthenware made in The Netherlands, known for its heavy glaze. A blue underglaze decoration on conventional patterns with town and landscape scenes on a white background.

dentils Small teeth-like blocks that form a border under a cornice. Source: Antiques Price Guide 2004, Judith Miller ISBN -7894-9550-3

Depression Glass Depression Glass most commonly refers the machine pressed glass manufactured during the great depression. This mass-produced glassware was often included in promotional giveaways, with additional pieces available for purchase at a local store. Generally pink or green, some Depression glass patterns were manufactured in blue, amber and yellow. Depression glass was usually manufactured as quickly and inexpensively as possible, substituting intricate patterns and cheerful colors for the quality workmanship that the average consumer was unable to afford during this period. This appealing glass brightened homes during a difficult time in American history, and is now collected for both it's beauty and it's historic significance. Depression Glass is full of flaws, imparting frequent imperfections such as Straw Marks, and bumps of extra glass. Depression Glass often leans to one side, wobbles on the counter top, and seems slightly misshapen. Two identical items may have slightly different dimensions. One pattern may have several shades of the same color. Imperfection is characteristic of Depression glass, and will not diminish the value of the item in any way. Shown in image is a Depression glass 4-part relish dish by Anchor Hocking. Featuring the magnificently detailed process-etched princess pattern, this Vaseline green compartmentalized relish is eight sided and handled for ease of transport. Produced between 1931 and 1935, the piece measures 8 ½ inches in diameter. Source: architecturals.net

diaper A repeating pattern of diamond or other geometric shapes. Source: Antiques Price Guide 2004, Judith Miller ISBN -7894-9550-3

diecast Objects made by pouring molten metal into a closed metal die or mold. Source: Antiques Price Guide 2004, Judith Miller ISBN -7894-9550-3

diorama A life-size exhibit of a wildlife specimen or scene with realistic natural surroundings and a painted background

Directoire A period of design in France after the Revolution, from 1795 to 1804. Characterized by Roman motifs and named for the Directory, the government at the time.

dovetail A term in carpentry used to designate a method of joinery. A tenon or tongue that flares outward in the shape of a dove's tail that interlocks with alternating similar grooves or projections from another piece of wood. Frequently used to join corners of drawers and cabinets.

dowel Headless pin of metal or wood which fits into a corresponding hole on another piece, forming a joint fastening them together.

drop in / slip seat A removable, usually upholstered seat. Source: Antiques Price Guide 2004, Judith Miller ISBN -7894-9550-3

drop-front A top or front of a desk hinged at the bottom that drops to a horizontal position, forming a surface for writing. Also called a drop-lid.

drop-leaf A leaf, hinged to the side of a table, which drops at the side when not in use.

drum table A round table with a deep apron resembling a drum.

dumbwaiter table A serving table, consisting of three or four circular trays on a central shaft with the smallest being at the top and the largest at the bottom. Also known as a tier table.

Duncan Phyfe Phyfe, Duncan - America's most famous cabinetmaker 1768-1854. His work was greatly influenced by Sheraton, Directoire, and Empire design. He used mostly mahogany with finely carved ornaments. Known for Federal design.