Side chair

Herts Brothers

ca. 1882–85 · Mahogany with marquetry decoration · The American Wing

The metal and mother-of-pearl marquetry on the crest and seat rails of this side chair, as well as the delicate carving, demonstrate the immense skill and creativity found in New York City’s cabinetmaking workshops during the late nineteenth century. Such shops depended on highly trained émigré craftsmen, many of whom had fled political strife and economic hardship in regions that compose modern-day France and Germany. These designers, craftsmen, carvers, and upholsterers were employed by multiple companies over the course of their careers, making it difficult to distinguish the work of a singular firm.

Artist

Herts Brothers

Date

ca. 1882–85

Medium

Mahogany with marquetry decoration

Culture

American

Department

The American Wing

Credit line

Gift of Sue and Stuart P. Feld, in honor of Nonnie Frelinghuysen, 2015