Armchair

Art Historical Context

This stately armchair, dating from 1690–1725, stands as a fine example of early colonial American craftsmanship. Constructed from sturdy maple wood with leather upholstery, it measures an impressive 123.2 × 58.4 × 43.2 cm (48 1/2 × 23 × 17 in.), designed for both comfort and durability in everyday use. Housed in the Art Institute of Chicago's Arts the Americas department and classified as seating, its anonymous creation underscores the skilled work of unnamed artisans in the New World. Maple, abundant in North American forests, was a practical choice for furniture makers during this period, prized for its hardness and fine grain that allowed for precise joinery techniques. The leather covering added a touch of refinement, likely protecting the wood while providing a supple seat suited to long hours by the fireside. As a artifact of colonial domestic life, this armchair offers a window into the evolving tastes and self-sufficiency of early American households. Its survival highlights the enduring quality of period furniture, inviting visitors to imagine it gracing a 17th-century parlor filled with the hum of family gatherings.