Images(9)

Couch

Dateca. 1695

OriginEngland

MediumWalnut and cane

DimensionsOH:37 3/4"; OL:60 1/4"; OD:22 1/2"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1936-249

DescriptionCouch Walnut, cane; raking back composed of a pair of vertical, blocked and spiral twisted posts terminating in carved urn and mushroom finials; center portion of back composed of a rectangular frame of carved, scrolled and pierced members within which are two rectangular caned panels divided vertically by a narrow carved and scrolled strip; back hinged between posts at top and may be raised and lowered by mean of a chain (not original); rectangular, caned bed framed by four rectangualr members decorated with X crosshatching on top and outside edges; pair of shaped braces beneath bed; bed supported on three pair of blocked and spiral twisted legs terminating in flattened turnip feet; pair of carved, scrolled and pirced side stretchers, each with a central crown, on each side; three spiral twisted cross stretchers, one beneath each set of legs.
Label TextThis form was historically known as a couch. A 1755 dictionary defined the term as a “seat of repose, upon which it is common to lye down dressed.” This costly, fully developed example of the form includes a hinged back supported by chains that allow the user to recline. The spiral turnings and rich carving are further evidence of high quality. When new, the couch was fitted with a sumptuous mattress, bolster, and cushion like those reproduced here. The final product was the work of professional carvers, turners, caners, and upholsterers.
Markings"WR" stamped on the reverse of the two proper right carved side stretchers.