Armchair
1830–35
Medium
Mahogany, cherry, ash
Dimensions
38 x 21 1/4 x 25 5/16 in. (96.5 x 54 x 64.3 cm)
Classification
Armchair
Culture
American
Department
The American Wing
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Mrs. Alfred Joltin, in memory of Ida Louise Opdycke, 1971
Accession Number
1971.128.2
Art Historical Context
Welcome to our exhibit featuring *BK-1970-270*, an exquisite anonymous bobbin lace created around 1815–1825. Measuring an impressive 255 cm in length and just 6 cm in width (with a depth of 2 cm), this delicate strip exemplifies the artistry of early 19th-century lace-making. Its slender, elongated form suggests it was likely designed as a decorative border orounce for garments, shawls, or household linens, highlighting the era's fascination with ornamental textiles. Bobbin lace, the medium here, is a labor-intensive technique originating in Europe during the Renaissance and peaking in popula...
About the Artist
Duncan Phyfe · 1770–1854
Duncan Phyfe (1770–1854) was a Scottish-born American cabinetmaker who became the most celebrated furniture maker in the history of American decorative arts. Born Duncan Fife near Loch Fannich in the Scottish Highlands, he emigrated with his family to Albany, New York, around 1783–84, where he apprenticed to a cabinetmaker. By 1792 he had established his own workshop on Partition Street (later Ful...