Fan-back Windsor side chair

1785-1792

Maker

Sampson Barnet (working 1776-1823)

Measurements

36-1/2 x 20-3/4 x 20-1/4

Materials

Tulip poplar (seat), maple (legs, stretchers, and crest rail), hickory (rear post and spindles)

Credit Line

Historic Odessa Foundation

Accession Number

1979.65

Inscription

“S·BARNET” is stamped into the underside of seat at the center front.  This is the same brand as on accession no. 1978.107.

Condition Notes

The bottom 3 inches of all four legs have been restored.  The chair has been stripped of all paint and refinished in a clear coating.

Provenance

The chair was purchased from Herbert Schiffer Antiques in Exton, Pennsylvania, on June 13, 1979.  His label remains attached to the back of the seat.

Comments

The 7-spindle back has boldly turned rear posts at each side.  The serpentine shaped crest with rounded ears is made of maple, an unusual wood for this chair part, but it is almost certainly original to the chair.  The carved tulip poplar seat is shield-shaped with a high pommel in front.  Four baluster-turned legs are rounded-tenoned into it and wedged from the top.