Ottoman
Classification
furniture
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Gift of Jack Lenor Larsen
Accession Number
1986-39-2
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
Bow-shaped horn supported square ottoman upholstered in gold leatherette. Part of group with armchair 1986-39-1.
Art Historical Context
Crafted by Bohemian artist and designer Wenzel Friedrich (182–1902) between1880 and 1890, this *Ottoman* exemplifies the inventive furniture design of late 19th-century Europe. Housed in the Smithsonian American Art Museum's collection a gift from textile innovator Jack Lenor Larsen, it forms part of a matched set with an accompanying armchair (198639.1), highlighting the era's emphasis on coordinated interior ensembles. The piece features a distinctive square form supported by elegantly bow-shaped horn elements, upholstered in shimmering gold leatherette. Horn, a natural material prized for ...