Armchair

Armchair
Beech (primary), paint
1775-1790

Status

Not on view

Label Text

This type of armchair with outward curving arms, open sides below the arms, and a concave (as opposed to straight) back is known in France as a "fauteuil en cabriolet." After the Revolution, many Americans cultivated a taste for the goods offered by their most important ally - France. Washington encouraged this trend by furnishing the executive residence with French furniture, ceramics, and glassware.

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Datec.1790-1795

Geography Probably made - France

Medium/TechniqueBeech (primary), paint

DimensionsOverall: 31 3/4 in. x 23 3/8 in. x 20 1/4 in. (80.65 cm x 59.39 cm x 51.44 cm) Other (Legs and arm supports (to top of finial) ): 22 1/4 in. (56.52 cm) Other (Legs (to lower edge of rosette block) ): 20 1/4 in. (51.44 cm)

Credit LineGift of Mrs. Charles Washburn, 1908

Object numberW-30

DescriptionWhite-painted and carved Louis XVI armchair or "fauteuil en cabriolet;" the upholstered, concave back on fluted back supports has a molded "en chapeau de gendarme" (literally, policeman's hat) crest rail with central projection and incurved ends punctuated by fluted circular finials; the curved, molded arms have upholstered pads and end in cylindrical, reeded terminals topped with carved rosettes; fluted and reeded baluster-turned supports above horizontally-ribbed blocks; the D-shaped, rounded-front seat is upholstered above the molded seat rails, which are joined by four stile blocks, the two at front with inset carved rosettes and the two at back are faceted; four turned, tapered, and fluted legs with spool-turned tops and brass caps on the feet; back with central support, crest rail, stay rail, and stiles left plain.

Upholstered with green silk damask with a repeating pattern of small "0" motifs; cording in the colors of peach, green, and cream outlines the top edges of the upholstered back and seat; decorative brass tack heads along lower edges of seat, back, and the arm pads; back is lined with a large-scale green and white check linen.

Published ReferencesMarion Day Iverson, The American Chair: 1630-1890 (New York: Hastings House Publishers, 1957), 216.

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