Writing-Arm Chair

Ebenezer Tracy (American, 1744–1803) · Lisbon · 1770–90

In combining desk and chair, this Windsor displays the ingenuity and efficiency often found in early American utilitarian furniture. The huge balloon-shaped writing arm has beneath it a small drawer, probably for writing tools and ink, and a sliding shelf to hold a candle or inkwell. The massive chestnut seat supports a drawer for storing papers and books.

Medium

Soft maple, yellow poplar, white pine, chestnut, white oak

Dimensions

43 x 36.3 x 18.5 in. (109.2 x 92.1 x 47 cm)

Accession

1955.33.3

Credit line

Bequest of Janet Smith Johnson in memory of her husband Frederick Morgan Johnson, B.A. 1891