Sewing Table

Art Historical Context

Nestled in The American Wing of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, elegant *Sewing Table* crafted by Peter Glass between 1865 and 1875 exemplifies the refined furniture-making traditions of post-Civil War America. of luxurious rosewood—a dense, richly grained tropical hardwood imported for its durability and exotic appeal—the table stands 28½ inches high with a 27½-inch diameter, perfect for intimate sewing sessions. Its circular form and compact scale suggest a practical yet sophisticated design, likely featuring a drawer or tilt-top for storing needles, threads, and fabrics. Peter Glass, a skilled New York cabinetmaker, was renowned for his contributions to the Renaissance Revival style, which drew on historical European motifs while adapting them to American tastes. During this Victorian era, sewing tables like this one symbolized domestic virtue and middle-class prosperity, reflecting women's central role in household crafts amid rapid industrialization. Rosewood's use underscores the piece's status as a high-end commission, showcasing advanced woodworking techniques such as precise joinery and polished veneering. A generous gift from Judith F. and William H. Hernstadt in 1978, this table invites visitors to envision leisurely afternoons in a Gilded Age parlor, blending utility with understated artistry.