New Perspectives on the Workshop of Gustave Stickley

Side Chair

1835-50

Probably made in New York City about 1835-50, this is one of many chairs from the nineteenth century whose maker is unknown. Unlike the Federal-period chair by Slover and Taylor, this side chair is less austere; the carved elements have more movement and the curved legs and front seat rail soften the overall effect of the chair. Made of oak rather than mahogany or other exotic woods, this chair speaks to the dissemination of high taste throughout the population by offering more affordable models with less-expensive materials.