Images(5)

Side Chair, Splat Back

Dateca. 1730

Possibly by Giles Grendey

OriginEngland, London

MediumWalnut, walnut burl veneer, and beech

DimensionsOH: 42 3/4"; OW: 20 1/4"; OD: 20 1/4"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1936-219

DescriptionSide chair with short, straight cresting rail, rolled slightly to rear; face carved with central shell surrounded by foliage with carved bosses at either side; flat, shaped stiles, veneered on front with molded edge; circular, carved bosses at base of stiles; broad, veneered, vase-shaped splat mortised into molded shoe; balloon seat frame, molded on upper edge; cabriole front legs with carved shell in frame on knee; knee bordered by molded C-scrolls; legs terminate in ball and claw feet; slightly cabriole rear legs terminating in high pad.

Woods: Primary: walnut and walnut burl veneer; secondary wood: beechLabel TextThis elegant side chair illustrates the robust carving found on London furniture from the second quarter of the 18th century. The carved elements are of a type associated with the work of Giles Grendey. Grendey owned a large cabinet shop in London during the first half of the 18th century that produced fashionable furniture for elite customers in England as well as Continental Europe.