Armchair (one of a set of six) 1769 - 1771

This armchair, crafted by John Mayhew in the late 18th century, is one of a set of six. Its gilded frame and floral upholstery reflect the opulence sought by the era's elite. Consider how such an object embodies the intersection of gender, class, and colonial power. The delicate floral patterns, traditionally associated with femininity, adorn a structure that signifies wealth and status. In that period, the creation of such luxury items relied on the exploitation of labor and resources, often extracted from colonized lands. As such, it invites us to reflect on the complex social structures that underpinned its creation and use. The armchair serves not only as a functional piece of furniture but also as a potent symbol of the entwined histories of privilege, artistry, and oppression.