Object ID	1970.6
Object Name	Chair
Dimensions	H-33 W-20 D-18 inches
Early Date	1815
Late Date	1835
Description	In 1842 Zadock Thompson noted that in Vermont the sugar maple was “used by our chair makers and cabinet makers in many kinds of their work. . . [and it results in] beautiful articles of furniture.” The striking color found in the local trees made the highly figured maple a favored choice over the increasingly scarce cherry and even imported mahogany. At least seven local cabinetmaking shops are known to have produced what were called “fancy” chairs during the first three decades of the 19th century. This particular example, which descended in the Dewey family, combines elements of both New York and southern New England styles to create a unique form. The term “fancy” was given to inexpensive chairs usually sold in sets of six or more. These chairs were often painted in bright colors and sometimes embellished with intricate designs. In this instance, the brilliantly grained local maple makes the use of painted decoration unnecessary.
Credit	Bequeasted by Mrs. Esther Dewey Merrill Parmelee (Mrs. Robert M.)

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Last modified on: March 06, 2007