Pedestal
Unknown Artist
1865–70
Medium
Walnut, burl walnut, poplar, marble
Dimensions
39 x 17 1/8 x 17 1/8 in. (99.1 x 43.5 x 43.5 cm)
Classification
Pedestal
Culture
American
Department
The American Wing
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Funds from various donors, 1970
Accession Number
1970.34
Art Historical Context
Step into the refined world of 19th American decorative arts with *Pedestal*, a masterful example of post-Civil War craftsmanship created between 1865 and 1870. Crafted from rich walnut, strikingly figured burl walnut, supportive poplar, and a polished marble top, this-based stand measures 39 inches tall—perfect for elevating sculptures, vases, or cherished objects in a Victorian parlor or grand hall. The unknown artist's skillful use of exotic burl walnut veneers highlights the era's fascination with natural wood grains, adding a luxurious, organic texture that catches the light beautifully. ...