THE LIFE of Otley’s most famous son will be discussed at a talk in Rawdon in May.

Thomas Chippendale rose from relatively humble beginnings to become a master craftsman, creating furniture for some of the richest and most powerful people in society.

Now an illustrated talk will be given at Rawdon Community Library about the man whose name is synonymous with the very best furniture.

Ruth Martin, Leeds City Museum’s curator of exhibitions, will present Thomas Chippendale: A Celebration Of His Life and Wonderful Craftsmanship on the 300th Anniversary of his birth in Otley. The event, being staged by Aireborough Civic Society, will take place at 7.30pm on Tuesday, May 1.

Chairman Clive Woods said: “He is arguably the most famous person ever to have come from our area and it is 300 years since his birth in nearby Otley. There are examples of his fine work at Harewood House, Newby Hall, Nostell Priory and Temple Newsam and this talk helps explain why his furniture is so exceptional and therefore valuable today.”

His furniture became famous nationally after he published a catalogue of his furniture styles in his ‘Directory’, one of the first catalogues.

Ms Martin will explain why Chippendale was so important in the history of design. She will talk about his life and how his business suffered from some of the aristocracy’s reluctance to pay their bills on time.

Mr Woods said the talk was an excellent introduction to the current exhibition at Leeds City Museum.

Ms Martin said: “It’s likely that very few people know much about the man himself and how he rose from relatively humble beginnings in Leeds, honed his craft in London and worked tirelessly and innovatively to become a successful businessman as well as a master craftsman.”

She has organised a free exhibition of Chippendale’s work at Leeds City Museum until June 9. Highlights include original drawings and documents, along with many examples of Chippendale’s furniture, some of which will be on public display for the first time.

Admission to the Rawdon talk is free for Aireborough Civic Society Members and £4 for non-members. Annual membership is £10 for four talks and is available on the night.