Armchair

Maker unknown

Probably Dover, Delaware, 1760–90

Mahogany, Atlantic white cedar, yellow pine

Gift of Sewell C. Biggs; 1992.95

Many Rococo chairs made in Delaware, like this armchair, share construction techniques with Philadelphia examples. These techniques include the shape of the joint that secures the seat rails to the rear upright supports. However, some differences suggest that this chair was likely made in Dover. These details include the unique, pierced decoration on the back support and the roughly carved shell designs. The name “D.R. Boardman” is stamped several times on this chair.