Side chair, rush seat

DateC.. 1790

MediumBirch with cattail-type rush seat

DimensionsOH: 38 1/2"; OW(at seat): 19 3/4"; OD: 14 7/8"

Credit LineGift of Mr. George W. Walker.

Object number1999-67,1

DescriptionSide chair with serpentine crest rail and molded ears over a intertwined pierced splat supported by a rectangular stay rail above the seat; flat stiles, rectangular in cross section extend into legs with slight rake to rear; front legs square in cross section with beaded outer corners; front, side, and rear rectangular stretchers with bead on outer top corner; front and rear stretchers higher than side stretchers; trapezoidal rush woven seat with blocks at front corners and cherry edge around front, sides, and rear.
Label TextA simplified version of Robert Manwaring's parlor chair design of 1765, this maple and rush seat chair would have been considered fashionable in the Vermont backcountry where it was made. The use of maple and rush, which were painted originally, rather than mahogany and silk or wool represents a less expensive option for the customer. Even so, the design of the back places the chair firmly within popular mainstream fashion.