chair

Dateyear unknown

Mediumwood

Dimensions35 × 19 × 20 in. (88.9 × 48.3 × 50.8 cm)

ClassificationsFurnishings

Credit LineAlbuquerque Museum, gift of Dolores Colligan Swanson

Object numberPC1998.42.4

DescriptionThis Victorian side chair, handcrafted from dark varnished oak and brown upholstery, features a wide, circular backrest decorated with subtle carved linear details. A supportive, curved wooden rail runs through the middle of the hollow backrest. The seat of the chair is stretched in brown upholstery, embroidered with a flower image common within the Victorian design conventions of the time. The two front legs of the chair connect to a wooden frame, which holds up the seat cushion. The two back legs are the same piece of wood as the large backrest. All four legs of the chair have been carved with a slight curve in their stance. This chair is significant as it reflects the delicate craftsmanship and stylistic ideals of the period in which it was produced, offering insight into American life through the lens of the nation’s cultural preferences.

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