Duncan Phyfe
American, 1768 - 1854
Born in Scotland in 1768 as Duncan Fife, Duncan Phyfe emigrated to the United States as a child and began his cabinetmaking journey in Albany, New York, alongside his family. By 1792, he had established himself in New York City, quickly gaining a reputation for his refined craftsmanship and deep understanding of classical design. Though he did not invent a furniture style, Phyfe became the foremost American interpreter of European Neoclassicism—drawing from Sheraton, Regency, and Directoire influences with signature features like lyre-back chairs, reeded legs, and delicate brass accents. As the aesthetic evolved, he transitioned to the bolder Empire style by 1825, maintaining his prominence in fashionable society. His success was further cemented by elite patrons, most notably John Jacob Astor. At its peak, Phyfe’s workshop employed over 100 craftsmen and defined what became known as the “New York Style.” His legacy lives on as a cornerstone of American decorative arts, with examples of his work held in major museums and collections today.
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Duncan Phyfe
Late 18C American Sheraton Sideboard by Duncan Phyfe – Important
H 41 in W 68 in D 24 in
$ 40,000
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Duncan Phyfe
Fine Sheraton Carved Mahogany Drop-Leaf Dining Table, 1820
H 28 in W 24 in D 48 in
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Duncan Phyfe
Fine Bronze-Mounted Walnut & Ebony Inlaid Parcel-Gilt Mahogany Games Table
H 29 in W 36 in D 18 in
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Duncan Phyfe
Rare Federal Sofa with Carved Paw Feet and Carved Three Panel Back
H 32 in W 87 in D 28 in
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Duncan Phyfe
Rare Bronze-Mounted Mahogany Pier Table with Gilded Scroll Supports
H 36 in W 41 in D 17 in
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Duncan Phyfe
Important Bronze-Mounted Mahogany Cheval Dressing Mirror, c. 1820
H 74 in W 41 in D 24 in
Duncan Phyfe
Set of Nine Federal Carved Mahogany Dining Chairs including an Armchair
H 33 in W 19 in D 21 in
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Duncan Phyfe
Gilt-Bronze Mounted and Brass-Inlaid Mahogany Pier Table
H 36 in W 42 in D 17 in
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Duncan Phyfe
FEDERAL CLUSTER COLUMN LIBRARY TABLE WITH OCTAGONAL LEAVES
H 28 in W 46 in D 38 in
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