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Mayhew & Ince: Masters of 18th-Century English Cabinetmaking

In 1759, John Mayhew and William Ince entered into a formal partnership as “Cabinet-makers and Upholders.” Their agreement, signed on 16 January of that year, established a 21-year venture beginning on Christmas Day, 1758. The first property they purchased as a firm was that of Charles Smith – the humble beginning of what would become one of the most important cabinet-making firms in English history.

Today, the exquisite furniture of Mayhew & Ince is celebrated as part of Britain’s cultural heritage, preserved in stately homes and museum collections across the world.

Rivals of Chippendale

At the time, their greatest competitor was Thomas Chippendale, already a household name thanks to his 1754 publication The Gentleman and Cabinet Maker’s Director. This groundbreaking pattern book set the standard for English Rococo and early Georgian furniture, and Ince himself was among its subscribers.

Recognising the power of such a publication, Mayhew & Ince followed with their own catalogue, The Universal System of Household Furniture, dedicated to the Duke of Marlborough. Though inspired by Chippendale’s commercial success, their style was notably more classical, with a particular emphasis on refined marquetry and elaborate inlays.

Signature Style: Marquetry & Exotic Woods

Mayhew & Ince became renowned for their elaborate marquetry, often employing a wide palette of imported and domestic timbers. Satinwood from East India, purplewood from South America, and unusual applications of yew distinguished their work. They also used fine-grained English woods such as pear, box, plum, and holly, alongside oak, mahogany, and deal for carcassing.

The results were pieces of breathtaking detail and colour, celebrated for their originality and craftsmanship.

Patrons of the Aristocracy

Working closely with Robert Adam, the duo created some of the most important neoclassical furniture of the late 18th century. Among their notable commissions:

• Kimbolton Cabinet (1775) for the Duchess of Manchester – their most celebrated work.

• Furniture for the Duchess of Northumberland and Earl of Kerry (1771).

• Commissions for Sir John Whitwell at Audley End (1776).

• Works for the Duke and Duchess of Bedford (1767–1797).

Their clientele represented the very highest ranks of English society, cementing their reputation as cabinetmakers to the elite.

Decline & Legacy

By the late 1760s, Mayhew & Ince were thriving, expanding their business through loans. However, financial overextension led to heavy debts, and by the early 1800s the partnership dissolved.

Despite this, their legacy endures. Their furniture – marked by classical elegance, innovative marquetry, and impeccable craftsmanship – remains among the finest expressions of English cabinetmaking.

Explore Fine English Furniture

At Nicholas Wells Antiques, we specialise in fine English and Continental antique furniture, including outstanding 18th-century examples. Our carefully curated collection showcases the artistry of masters like Mayhew & Ince, bringing museum-quality craftsmanship into the hands of today’s discerning collectors.

Browse our collection and discover the very finest pieces of English furniture heritage.