Stool

1850-1925

Measurements

19 in x 13 in x 9-7/8 in

Materials

Walnut top, European resinous pine legs, stretchers, and rails

Credit Line

Historic Odessa Foundation, gift of Hugh R. and Bayard Sharp

Accession Number

1977.529

Condition Notes

The seat board has split along the grain. 

Provenance

Although not confirmed in writing, this stool likely belonged to H. Rodney Sharp, father of the donors.

Comments

This joined stool has square tapered legs suggesting fabrication in the late eighteenth or early nineteenth century.  However, several anomalies in its construction suggest that it may have been made later to look older.  It is made of a low grade of resinous pine, showing large knots in a few places. Paint would likely have covered that wood, but there is no evidence of any paint.  Moreover, the seat board is of walnut, an unlikely combination of primary woods. 

Regarding construction, all of the joined rails and stretchers are recessed from the leg surfaces, which is not a period practice.  The seat board, which does not appear to have been re-attached, does not fit on the frame squarely.  Instead, the frame forms a slight rhombus.

The wear and scarring on the top of the seat board looks induced.