Plan of Sitting Room

About this artwork

Research in Progress

Art Historical Context

**Plan of Sitting Room** *By A.N Davenport Co., 1900–05* Step into the cozy heart of an early 20th-century home with the *Plan of Sitting Room* A.N. Davenport Co., a prominent furniture manufacturer of the era. Created between 1900 and 1905, this furniture plan offers a glimpse into domestic design at the turn of the century when sitting rooms served as versatile spaces for family gatherings, reading, and quiet conversation. As part of the Smithsonian American Art Museum's collection—generously gifted by The Lake St. Louis Historical Society—this piece reflects the craftsmanship and innovation of U.S. furniture makers transitioning from Victorian opulence to simpler, more functional styles. Classified as furniture, the plan likely served as a blueprint for outfitting an ideal parlor, showcasing how companies like Davenport Co. catered to middle-class aspirations for refined home interiors. Its presence in the Smithsonian highlights the cultural importance of everyday objects in American life, preserving the blueprint of comfort amid rapid industrialization. With research ongoing, this artifact invites us to ponder the evolving tastes that shaped our living spaces over a century ago.