Side Chair 1805 - 1815

This side chair was made by Duncan Phyfe, probably in New York, from mahogany and fabric. The wood has been skillfully worked, with fluted legs and a beautifully carved lyre motif in the backrest. But it is not just about the refinement of the chair's design. It speaks to the realities of early 19th century America. Mahogany was a prized import, often sourced from the Caribbean. Its use signaled wealth and status. The labor to produce this chair would have been divided among specialized workshops, from sawing and carving to upholstery. This division of labor reflects emerging capitalist modes of production, where efficiency and expertise were highly valued. Paying attention to materials and processes helps us to understand the full story of this seemingly simple chair. It bridges the refinement of craft and design, with the social and economic context of its time.