Chest of Drawers

Date1790-1810

Artist/Maker Robert Parham

Possibly by Daniel Trotter

OriginAmerica, Pennsylvania, Philadelphia

MediumPrimary: Mahogany. Secondary: tulip backboard; tulip and white pine framing.

DimensionsOH: 33 3/8"; OW(base): 39 7/8"; OD:(base): 20"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1930-113

DescriptionChest of drawers, flat, rectangular top with unusual amount of overhang at rear; molded edge at front and sides; straight sides with fluted quarter-columns at front corners; front composed of four graduated drawers with bead moldings around edges; drawers fitted with replacement brasses; plain, molded base supported on four ogee, bracket feet.
Label TextThis chest with four drawers, fluted quarter columns at the front corners, and ogee bracket feet is typical of Philadelphia production in the late eighteenth century. The form filled a need for well-crafted, basic furniture for the upper middle class.

This chest was signed by Robert Parham who apprenticed in the shop of Daniel Trotter from about 1794 until 1810. When Trotter died in 1800, his partner and son-in-law, Ephraim Haines, continued to operate the shop and presumably to train Parham.
MarkingsSigned in white chalk; once on bottom of baseboard, and once across interior of upper backboard, "Robert Parham"

Exhibition(s)