Side chair, splat back

Date1770-1800

MediumCherry, cherry and oak slip seat frames

DimensionsOH: 38"; OW: 18 1/2"; OD: 15 1/8"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1941-74

DescriptionAppearance: Splat-back side chair with bowed cresting rail with flared ears; shaped stiles, flat on front and chamfered on rear edges; pierced splat mortised into cross rail three inches above seat rail; "square" seat frame, molded on upper edge; front legs "square" in section; four rectangular stretchers molded on upper outside edges.

Woods: The slip-seat frame is made of cherry and oak and appears to be original.Mark(s)"VIII" cut into inside of front seat rail and slip seat frameProvenanceApparently owned by John and Ruth (Stanley) Mix of New Britain and Farmington, Connecticut. John Mix was born in New Haven and married (date unknown) Ruth Stanley, daughter of Deacon Noah Stanley of New Britain. She was born on July 15, 1756, and died in New Haven in 1811. The date of her husband's death in unknown. Portraits of Mr. & Mrs. Mix, painted in 1788, are in the AARFAC in Williamsburg. The chair descended with the portraits and is thought to be the one (or of the same set) in which both subjects are seated.