Armchair

The squared-off forms of the back of this chair, with its classically inspired details, mark a dramatic stylistic departure from the deeply carved, sculptural forms common to mid-18th-century furniture. Cabinetmakers across the United States used pattern books to access European styles. Through such books as Thomas Sheraton's "Cabinet-Maker's and Upholsterer's Drawing Book" (1792), fashionable designs from London were readily adapted for production in the major cities of the east coast of the United States. The design of this armchair from Norfolk, Virginia, and the side chair made in New York, adjacent to the sideboard, reflects the remarkable similarity of forms and details that could result from such common sources of inspiration. This chair is from the Museum's set of fourteen, including two armchairs and twelve side chairs.