Chair
1935/1942
Medium
pen and ink and graphite on paperboard
Dimensions
overall: 28.5 x 22.9 cm (11 1/4 x 9 in.)
Classification
Index of American Design
Department
CG-W
Museum
National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.
Credit
Index of American Design
Accession Number
1943.8.10400
Art Historical Context
Behold the meticulously rendered *Chair* by Francis Law Durand, a and ink drawing with graphite accents on paperboard, created 1935 and 1942. Measuring a modest 28.5 x 22.9 cm, this work captures the elegant lines and sturdy form of an American chair, showcasing the everyday artistry of vernacular furniture design. Durand's precise draftsmanship highlights the object's craftsmanship, inviting viewers to appreciate the subtle curves and structural harmony that defined functional beauty in American homes. This piece is a gem from the Index of American Design, a landmark WPA Federal Art Project ...
About the Artist
Francis Law Durand
**Francis Law Durand (1906–1995)** Born on March 31, 1906, in Mount Holly, New Jersey, Francis Law Durand emerged as a skilled American draftsman and artist during the Great Depression era. Little is known about his early life or formal training, as biographical details remain sparsely documented beyond his professional output. By 1935, he was employed by the Works Progress Administration (WPA), ...