Gustave Herter, New York c. 1865

With good attribution to Herter Brothers, these distinctive slipper chairs are virtually identical to ones documented as having been produced by that firm for the Libby-Morse House in Portland, Maine. With a graceful and distinctive form derived from French antecedents, these chairs are considered among the most emblematic pieces produced by the Herter firm during the Gustave Herter era.

The association with the distinguished Ames family of Mass­achusetts gives added appeal to these particular pieces. Documented later commissions to the Herters by the Ames family are considered some of the most important in the entire oeuvre of the firm, and this earlier association is therefore of great significance. A similar chair of undocumented provenance is in the collection of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Distinctive pieces with sound attribution to Herter Brothers and association with a distinguished family, these chairs are fascinating, appealing, useful and attractive.

DESCRIPTION: 

Carved rosewood with upholstered seat and back and gilt ormolu mounts. The delicate ogee curved back above a sloped seat. Conforming molded stiles with carved pendant blossoms and rosette mounts continuing to side seat rails with central sunflower mounts. The front cabriole legs having leaf carvings on their knees and terminating with hairy cleft-hoof feet concealing original India Comb Rubber casters. Muslin seats marked, “Ames 2719.”

CONDITION: 

Original gilt mounts, reshellacked French polished surface. Upholstery replaced incorporating evidence from analytical research. (See report prepared by conservator Nancy Britton.)

SIZE: 36” h x 20” w x 24.5” d

PRICE: On request.

CALL NUMBER: 95-I-CH