Pair of Library or Parlor Arm Chairs
Maryland, Probably Baltimore
Mahogany with ash and poplar secondary
Circa 1760
H. 40”, W. 29.5” D. 22”
These handsome Maryland arm chairs exhibit the boldly shaped crest rails, exaggerated ears and robust, fluted stiles that are characteristic features of the best examples from the period. The weight of the framing, scale, lack of through tenons and style of the acanthus carvings and ball and claw feet are also consistent with chairs with histories in and around Baltimore. Chairs with similar characteristics have been associated with Baltimore cabinetmakers Gerhard Hopkins and Robert Moore.
The proportions of these chairs – especially the seat height – suggest that they were intended for use in a library, office or sitting area rather than as members of a larger set of dining chairs.
