Images(2)

Backstool

Date1990 (frame) 2009 (upholstery)

Maker Kittinger Company , frame

Upholsterer Leroy Graves

OriginAmerica, New York, Buffalo and Virginia, Williamsburg

MediumMahogany, maple, copper, ethafoam, plastic, nomax, linen, cotton, wool, and brass

DimensionsOH: 39"; OW: 22 1/2"; SD: 20 1/4"

Object number2009-57 (R)

DescriptionReproduction upholstered backstool with serpentine crest rail; trapezoidal seat, straight legs, "H" stretcher, and a rear stretcher. Seat fully upholstered using non-invasive upholstery materials with tufting and partial brass nails; back upholstered on one side, revealing layers of upholstery and conservation materials on other side.Label TextThis reproduction backstool illustrates the layers of materials used in The Graves Approach, a non-intrusive upholstery system that replicates the look of traditional upholstery without causing further harm to the antique chair-frame.

After decades of study and experimentation, upholstery conservator Leroy Graves developed a method to honor the upholstery craft of the period using modern, conservation-safe materials. By manipulating materials like copper, molded polyester resin-infused linen, Ethafoam, acrylic, and plywood, Leroy creates the basis for an upholstered cap that fits snugly over the original wooden frame. When covered in reproduction fabric and brass nails, the cap achieves an 18th-century look without the damage.