SAPFM Museum Furniture Collection

Armchair

George Jakob Hunzinger (American, born Germany, 1835–1898)

Armchair, George Jakob Hunzinger (American, born Germany, 1835–1898), c. 1869; patented in 1869, Ebonized walnut with gilt…
Maker
George Jakob Hunzinger (American, born Germany, 1835–1898)
Date
c. 1869; patented in 1869
Medium
Ebonized walnut with gilt decoration and upholstery
Dimensions
113.7 × 65.5 × 71.8 cm (44 3/4 × 25 3/4 × 28 1/4 in.)
Form
Chair
Origin
New York City
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession
1996.439
Credit line
Perry and Gertrude Herst Endowment Fund
George Hunzinger designed and patented this chair, which uses a novel bracing system from the rear of the front feet to the midsection of the seat as a way to keep it from tipping over while in use. Hunzinger, a German born cabinetmaker who emigrated to the United States in the 1850s, secured more than 20 furniture patents to enhance the comfort and versatility of home furnishings. He also offered customization of the materials and finishes of his designs in order to appeal to a range of buyers; this chair, with its dark ebony and gilt finish was one of his most luxurious versions.
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