The ball-and-claw foot is the most prominent example of the West’s infatuation with the exotic East. This Chinese symbol for the search for wisdom-a dragon clutching a pearl-reached its zenith on 1730s English and American furniture. This class will offer insights into the subtleties of toe position, height of the web between toes, and claw prominence that developed into the distinct regional interpretations seen on 18th-century American furniture. During this two-day class, students will saw out and then carve a Chippendale ball-and-claw leg. There are many different circumstances while building period pieces in which you will have the opportunity to carve a ball-and-claw leg. Rather than clawing your way through the process blindly, come have a ball learning many of the secrets needed to reproduce this icon of the Chippendale period.