Chair

Object Name:

Chair

Object ID:

1956.329

Place of Origin:

New England

Date:

1725-1750

Description:

Arm Chair. "Slat-back" type, with four horizontal slats framed between cylindrical stiles with ring turnings and flat-topped finials of reel form. The three lower slats have arched upper edges, straight lower edges, are graduated, and bow backwards. Upper slat does not have arched upper edge, is narrower and does not bow back to the same degree. Splint seat. Outward flaring arms with rectangular cross-section and downward projecting, round terminals; slight projection integral with arms at juncture with baluster-turned arm supports, which are continuations of the cylindrical, ring-turned front legs. Cylindrical rear legs. Six turned stretchers: two at front, baluster-turned, each having three central rings; two stretchers on each side, plain and cylindrical. Grooves in bottoms of front legs indicate rockers may once have been applied. Holes in bottom of feet suggest former use of casters; hole later plugged; only two plugs now survive. Back stretcher missing, probably as a result of legs being cut down. Front stretchers worn. Finials worn on reverse; right one broken on front. Top part of uppermost slat apparently broken off; adjacent section on both stiles repaired. Holes bored through each arm. Tag attached to splint seat with accession information. Presently painted black, evidence of earlier red paint. Slats appear to be oak.

Material:

Wood

Dimensions:

H-39 W-24.625 D-20.5 inches

Provenance:

Purchased by donor at auction.

Credit Line:

Gift of Margaret H. Jewell