Taboret 1832 - 1842

This Taboret stool, made of mahogany, probably dates from the early 19th century and was crafted by Duncan Phyfe, a Scottish immigrant who became one of America's leading cabinetmakers. Phyfe's work reflects a period of both refined elegance and complex social dynamics. This piece, with its graceful lines and classical motifs, speaks to the aesthetic aspirations of the American elite. Yet, we must also remember that the wealth that allowed for such refinement was often built on the backs of enslaved people. While Phyfe catered to a wealthy clientele, the labor that produced the raw materials and often the textiles used in his furniture was deeply entwined with the brutal institution of slavery. Consider the layers of privilege embedded in this object, from the choice of imported mahogany to the skilled craftsmanship that demanded leisure time for its appreciation. The stool serves as a reminder of the power structures that shaped early American society, inviting us to reflect on the relationship between beauty, luxury, and social justice.