Side chair
Unknown Artist
third quarter 18th century
Medium
Walnut, painted and gilded; damask
Dimensions
Overall: H. 34 1/2 x W. 20 1/2 x D. 17 1/2 in. (87.6 x 52.1 x 44.5 cm)
Classification
Woodwork-Furniture
Culture
Italian
Department
European Sculpture and Decorative Arts
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of George Blumenthal, 1941
Accession Number
41.100.298
Art Historical Context
This elegant side chair, crafted in Italy during the third quarter the 18th centurycirca 1750–1779), exemplifies the opulent furniture traditions of the period. Produced by an unknown artisan, it stands at 34½ inches high, designed for graceful seating in grand salons or reception rooms of wealthy households. As part of The Metropolitan Museum of Art's Sculpture and Decorative Arts—generously gifted by George Blumenthal 1941—it reflects the era's blend of functionality and lavish display, when chairs like this formed suites that furnished aristocratic interiors. The chair's frame is finely ca...