WALNUT SIDE CHAIR
Alexandria, Virginia
Circa 1780
36” H, 17.25”H at seat rail, 22” W, 18” D
A significant group of chairs have been attributed to Alexandria shops based on family histories and specific structural and stylistic similarities. Among the characteristics of this group are scrolled ears, upper crest rails with serpentine shaped undersides, and four pierced elongated splats. The upper rails and legs usually have molded edges. Through tenons are common as are H stretchers, with and without rear stretchers. This chair, which has a Warrenton, Virginia history, features a serpentine front rail known in only one other example, now in the collection of Colonial Williamsburg (1982-173).
The chair survives with wear and tear commensurate with age and use. One front leg is tipped while the other is an old replacement. The aged surface has a dark, rich patina.
