Side chair
1840–60
Object Placeprobably Boston, Massachusetts
Medium/TechniqueMahogany, mahogany veneer, chestnut, original needlework upholstery
DimensionsOverall: 108.6 x 45.7 x 45.1 cm (42 3/4 x 18 x 17 3/4 in.)
Credit LineBequest of Barbara Boylston Bean
Accession number1976.645
On View
Not on viewClassificationsFurniture
Collections
The upholstery on this chair-with jewel-like colors and a geometric pattern-suggests medieval stained glass. However, the appearance of the needlework has changed over time. The iron-oxide dye used to blacken the wool stitches at the center of each geometric element caused the wool to disintegrate, leaving colorless holes. Nevertheless, the overall effect is a harmony of design between the chair's ornately carved frame and its vibrant upholstery.
ProvenanceDescended in the Boylston family of Boston. In 1976, given to the Museum as a bequest from Barbara Boylston Bean.
1730–50
about 1820
about 1830
1860–70
about 1800
1815–25
1813–16
1790–1810
about 1813–24
about 1813–24
about 1830–60