Jamaica was the richest British colony in the eighteenth century, and yet there has been little scholarly research in to how consumers chose to live, or how the island was serviced in terms of manufactured goods. The focus of this work is to understand the essence of Jamaican furniture, what makes it identifiable as a separate style and how can this can be achieved by bringing documentary material and objects together. This will be the first such study on the Jamaican eighteenth century decorative arts. While issues such as the transference of design, the importation of furniture, as well as political and cultural influences are examined, the thesis ultimately lays down the foundations for further study and challenges the perception that colonial decorative arts are dictated by the mother country. While it is certain there was a need for British imports it was also the case that furniture was customised for local use and needs. The research will hopefully lead transatlantic furniture historians, curators and collectors to re-evaluate their collections and look upon other objects, not thought to be in their remit, with renewed interest.

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