Chair, 1845-1850

Painting was a popular way to preserve and decorate furniture made of common woods. Stenciled images were the economical alternative to carving. The leaves and fruit found on the back of this chair were created with fine metallic powders, brushed on with small velvet or leather pads to create shades of bronze, green, and red. Bold graining on the top of the plank seat was created with dark brown paint, brushed over a ground of reddish brown with sweeping strokes meant to imitate a fine wood, probably rosewood.

Probably made in Galena, IL
Balloon back style, stenciled
Gift of Betty Madden, Springfield, IL (1988.38.21)

Furniture | Wood

© Illinois State Museum 31-Dec-96