Images(4)

Garden Bench

Dateca. 1820

OriginEngland

MediumIron

DimensionsOH. 38 1/2"; OW: 54"

Credit LineGift of the John D. Rockefeller, 3rd, Fund, Inc., through the generosity and interest of Mrs. John D. Rockefeller, 3rd, and members of the family.

Object number1996.BH.798,3

DescriptionWrought iron Regency half-round garden tree bench. Half-round U shaped seat formed by frame and seven rounded thin slats, supported by three pairs of strap legs terminating in rounded domed feet; stretchers between legs; back formed by three canted uprights at center and ends with interlaced strapwork of flat and reeded iron forming ovals and arcs. To be used with a second bench around a tree. .2 has tabs with hole at the top of the rear stiles to stiles of .3 bench.
Label TextFrom the late 18th into the early 19th century, wrought iron garden furniture ornamented elegant British gardens. Created of delicate, but durable strapwork, these benches provided delight and respite. The fashion for these pieces revived in America in the early 20th century after decades of more massive cast iron garden seats. Following this trend, Mrs. Rockefeller acquired these pieces for her garden at Bassett Hall. This example would have been used with a second half around a tree.
ProvenanceRichard W. Lehns Inc., N.Y.C. Mrs. John D. Rockefeller Jr., April 1937.