Hepplewhite Style, a neoclassical style of furniture designed by the English cabinetmaker George Hepplewhite. He learned the art of furniture making in Lancaster, subsequently setting up a shop for his trade in Saint Giles, Cripplegate, London, about 1760. He is regarded, along with his contemporary Thomas Sheraton, as one of the outstanding English designers of the 18th century. No furniture made by Hepplewhite has ever been identified; his fame came about with the posthumous publication of his book of more than 300 designs, The Cabinet Maker and Upholsterer's Guide (1788; revised ed. 1789, 1794). His work is characterized by a classic simplicity and delicacy. Hepplewhite chairs are noted for their comparatively small size; the shield or heart shape of their backs; their slender legs, often tapering to a spade foot; and their painted or inlaid ornamentation.