Wash Stand
Medium
Pine
Dimensions
39 1/4 x 30 1/8 x 16 1/16 in. (99.7 x 76.5 x 40.8 cm)
Classification
Wash stand
Culture
American, Shaker
Department
The American Wing
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift from Faith and Edward Deming Andrews Collection, 1981
Accession Number
1981.441.3
Art Historical Context
This elegant pine wash stand, crafted by the United Society of Bel in Christ’s Second Appe—commonly known as the Shakersbetween 1810 and 1830, exemplifies the sect's commitment to simplicity and functionality in everyday life. Measuring about 39 inches tall, it features clean lines, tapered legs, and a practical basin shelf, designed for personal hygiene in Shaker communal villages across New England and the Midwest. Made from humble pine, a readily available softwood, the piece reflects the Shakers' resourceful use of local materials, often left unfinished or lightly painted to highlight the ...