Bow-back Windsor side chair

1798-1807

Maker

Sampson Barnet (working 1776-1823)

Measurements

35-1/2 in x 18-1/4 in x 18-3/4 in

Materials

Tulip poplar (seat), oak bow, hickory (spindles), maple (legs)

Credit Line

Historic Odessa Foundation, gift of Mrs. William H. Fenn III

Accession Number

1979.154

Inscription

“S. BARNET / WILMINGTON” is stamped into the underside of the seat at the center front.

Condition Notes

All legs have been rebuilt below the stretchers, the medial stretcher has been pieced out at the right side, and the back of the bow has been patched at the top.

Comments

The back of this Windsor side chair is composed of nine bamboo-shaped spindles, which gives it a dense appearance.  A particularly attractive feature is the bow itself that pinches inward at the base.  It and the spindles socket into a well-carved shield-shaped seat.  Below the seat, the bamboo-turned legs are not as finely detailed.  As usual, the legs pierce the seat and are wedged from the top. 

All paint has been removed from the chair.