Hepplewhite side chair c. 1795

This Hepplewhite side chair was made by Stephen Badlam, a Bostonian cabinetmaker. It's crafted from mahogany, a luxurious wood at the time, sourced from the tropics through complex trade routes. Mahogany was prized for its strength, fine grain, and rich color. Badlam would have used hand tools like saws, chisels, and planes to shape the wood. The chair’s design, with its shield-shaped back and delicate carving, reflects the Neoclassical style popular during the late 18th century. The upholstered seat, adorned with decorative tacks, adds a touch of comfort and refinement. The making of this chair involved various specialized skills, from woodworking to upholstery, each contributing to its overall aesthetic and function. Objects like this one remind us that even seemingly simple forms involve materials and techniques that are socially and culturally significant. They represent the skilled labor and global connections that shaped early American material culture, blurring the lines between craft and fine art.