Side Chair, Splat Back

Date1790-1810

Mediummahogany and beech

DimensionsOH: 37 5/8"; OW: 20 1/4"; OD: 18 1/2"

Credit LineBequest of Gertrude H. Peck

Object number1980-138

DescriptionShield-back side chair composed of beaded stiles, splat rail, and crest rail; all curvilinear; crest and splat rails support pierced elliptical splat consisting of vertical ribs carved with neo-classic foliage; carving features Prince of Wales feathers (extending onto crest rail) flanked by two oval rosettes and bell flowers; five symmetrical, flared leaves extend from ribs to splat rail; carving present on each crest rail corner consisting of acanthus leaves.

Front and side seat rails serpentine both vertically and horizontally; rear rail undecorated but mahogany veneered and possesses removable shoe; each leg square and tapered; those of the front possess stopped fluting on two sides terminating in spade feet.

Construction: All parts, except where noted are mahogany; splat top and stiles tenoned into crest rail; splat base tenoned into splat rail which is tenoned into stiles; front, side, and rear (outer surface mahogany veneered) seat rails of beech and tenoned into legs; later poplar blocks glued and screwed into corners of seat frame.