Images(3)

Stool

Date1650-1700

OriginEngland

MediumOak, boxwood, iron

DimensionsOH: 18"; OW: 18"; OD: 15"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1936-305

DescriptionRectangular box stool; hinged seat with thumbnail molded edge on four sides; over deep skirt with incised arched decoration on front and sides; rectangular iron lock plate in center of front skirt; four inverted baluster and ring turned legs; rectangular box stretchers; and half-ball feet; seat hinges on iron strap hinges to reveal cavity or box within sides.Label TextThe top of this late seventeenth century carved oak box stool lifts to reveal a hinged, lockable compartment. What was typically stored in a such a stool such is unknown, but more elaborate paneled chairs from the 16th and 17th centuries with locked compartments in their seats were often used for store fine linens. While a stool today is not considered a fine seat, elaborate examples such as this were in the 16th and 17th centuries.