Sideboard

The bold strap hinges, decorative tiles, and diagonal backboards of this sideboard suggest a somewhat medieval quality, characteristic of the influence of Charles Locke Eastlake (1836-1906). During the 1870s, Eastlake was one of the main promoters of a movement to reform design in England and America. In his highly influential books like "Hints on House Hold Taste" (1868), he called for the abolition of excessive ornament in favor of simpler surfaces and construction. Made in the fast-growing city of Chicago, this piece closely follows Eastlake's designs. The Minton tiles on the doors are from a series depicting the labors of the year and show February and May.