Highchair

Object Name:

Highchair

Object ID:

1954.021

Place of Origin:

New England, probably NH

Date:

1750-1780

Description:

High Chair. "Slat-back" type, with three, horizontal slats framed between turned, cylindrical stiles having ovoid finials with tall, terminal buttons. Slats have arched upper edges, straight lower edges, are graduated, and bow backwards. Splint seat. Outward flaring arms, rectangular in section except near juncture with back stiles where they are rounded; downward projecting, round terminals; blocks, integral with arms, projecting below them at juncture with baluster-turned arm supports, which are continuations of cylindrical front legs. Rear legs also cylindrical. All vertical members splayed. Seven turned stretchers, all plain and cylindrical--two at front, two at each side, one at back. Front stretchers, especially upper one, show wear. All vertical members encircled at intervals by scribed lines indicating intersection with other chair components. Painted red-brown. Several breaks in splint seat. Piece broken off left finial button.

Material:

Wood

Dimensions:

H-39.75 W-17.125 D-14.5 inches

Provenance:

Donor is grandson of Benjamin Pierce Cheney (1815-1895), who, as a stage driver, carried Daniel Webster (1782-1852) as a passenger; became founder of Adams Express Co. and Governor. The chair was either willed or given to Mr. Cheney by Webster and descended to the donor.

Credit Line:

Gift of George Bancroft Davis

People:

Webster, Daniel (1782-1852), Cheney, Benjamin P. (1815-1895)