Description
Newly acquired wealth from railroad production, manufacturing, and an expanded economy produced a new elite class of Americans who looked abroad for sources of decoration to adorn their lives. Grand, baronial furniture, reminiscent of German hunting lodges or French castles, became popular during the mid 1800s among America’s wealthy. Elaborate displays of abundance were reflected in the carvings of flora, fauna, and freshly hunted game. The depictions of Native American hunters on this example, most likely made in Philadelphia, may have meant that this piece was displayed at one of the many international expositions that occurred during this period.
Provenance
Mr. and Mrs. Franklin Corn Montross of Troy, Ohio. Said to have been acquired about 1900 on the east coast of the United States, probably Philadelphia or Baltimore.; By descent to their daughter, Mrs. Leon E. Brown of Troy who sold the piece at auction in Cincinnati, c. 1984 (Peter Hill Inc., East Lempster, New Hampshire).
Accession Number
1985.72
Medium
walnut
Dimensions
Overall: 290.4 x 211.4 x 69.4 cm (114 5/16 x 83 1/4 x 27 5/16 in.)
Classification
Furniture and woodwork
Credit Line
Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund