Object: Pair of Cherry Side Chairs, Pierced Splats with Serpentine Crest Rails, Yellow Pine Secondary
Dimensions: Height 40″ 17″ at seat
Maker: Unknown
Location: Southeastern Virginia, probably Williamsburg
Date: Ca.1770 – 1790
Commentary: Chairs with pierced splats characterized by elongated ovals terminating in foil ends were quite popular in the Virginia tidewater. This pair, from a Williamsburg estate, are quite similar to other examples were produced in Virginia�s colonial capital; some with elaborately carved crest rails, but more frequently in a less ornate style similar to this pair. The serpentine crest rails terminate in lobs or ears and have also been ornamented with large foils echoing those in the flanking lobs. As with many other examples from this group, these chairs have square front legs and square back legs that are chamfered and slightly flared. The H stretchers are further reinforced by back stretchers.
The same design influences, and in many cases, the same artisans, determined the styles of chairs produced in neighboring regions. Chairs produced in Fredericksburg and its environs are very similar to those made in Williamsburg. Similarly, styles traveled from eastern coastal Virginia into the interior along the border with North Carolina and chairs with similar features were found in the Roanoke River basin.
Condition and Materials: This pair of side chairs survives in overall good condition with normal evidence of wear along the stretchers, legs, and seat rails. A front leg and stretchers of one chair have been replaced. The other chair is in excellent condition. Witness marks suggest that the corner blocks of both chairs have been replaced but at different times. The secondary wood is yellow pine. One of the chairs is chisel marked IIII and the other The slip seats are also of yellow pine (by microanalysis)and seat inserts appear to be original. Several of the original tulip poplar (by microanalysis)nailed glue blocks have survived.
Price: Sold
