DescriptionEighteenth-century easy chairs—heavily padded, with thick down-filled cushions, and with wings to rest one's head against and keep drafts away—were often reserved for the elderly or the infirm. This New England example is remarkable for its elaborate upholstery and intact condition. The front is covered with Irish stitch needlework and the back with a needlework landscape scene. The seams are covered with silk tape. The frame is inscribed by "Gardner Junr," presumably the upholsterer, and dated "Newport, May 1758."

Signatures, Inscriptions, and MarkingsInscriptions: [in pencil on back of crest rail] Gardner Junr / Newport May / 1758 / W

ProvenanceThe Keech or Keach family, Newport, Rhode Island, by 1850–1926; with Ginsburg and Levy Inc., New York, 1926; Mrs. J. Insley Blair, Tuxedo Park, New York, 1926–1950