Antique American Victorian Late Classical Regency Mahogany Rocking Chair Rocker

Description

An exceptional American Late Classical Regency and Empire inspired rocking chair, circa 1850s. Attributed to Thomas Day. Made from mahogany with a high rose carved contoured back leading to downswept padded and scrolled arms. The chair features a burled front rail and pink rose vine upholstery.

Thomas Day was a master cabinetmaker and entrepreneur whose business flourished during a time when most African Americans were enslaved and free blacks were restricted in their movements and activities. During the antebellum years (1820–1861), North Carolina planters used both classical architecture and fine furniture to convey economic status and gentility. Day, whose father was a cabinetmaker, opened his shop in 1827 in Milton, North Carolina, where he created fine furniture and architectural interiors for an elite clientele. Day’s style is characterized by undulating shapes, fluid lines, and spiraling forms. He combined his own unique motifs with popular designs to create a distinctive style readily identified with his shop. Day is the only documented American cabinetmaker to offer clients both architectural elements for their Greek Revival homes and furniture incorporating the same classical motifs. To date, woodwork in about eighty homes in rural North Carolina and Virginia has been attributed to Day.

Condition

Good Vintage Condition; age related wear. Light marking and edgewear. Some pulls to the fabric on the padded arms.

Dimensions

23 1/2" w x 42 1/2" 3 x 42" h; seat height 18 3/4"