Armchair
ca. 1875
Medium
Gilded wood (probably cherry, maple or ash), modern upholstery with original underupholstery materials
Dimensions
28 1/4 x 28 x 20 1/4 in. (71.8 x 71.1 x 51.4 cm)
Classification
Armchair
Culture
American
Department
The American Wing
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Ann Pyne, 1999
Accession Number
1999.488
Art Historical Context
Step into the opulent world of Gilded Age America with this exquisite *Armchair* crafted by the Herter Brothers 1875. Renowned New York firm founded by German immigrant brothers Gustave and Christian Herter, were masters of luxury furniture design, serving elite clients like the Astors and Vanderbilts. This piece exemplifies their Renaissance Revival style, characterized by intricate carving and lavish gilding on fine hardwoods—likely cherry, maple, or ash a regal, jewel-like sheen. The armchair's gilded wood frame showcases the Herter Brothers' exceptional craftsmanship, blending European op...