Armchair

Best known for their work on bungalows in southern California, the architect-designers Charles Sumner Greene and Henry Mather Greene were given free reign to design the architecture, integrated furnishing, and interiors for their wealthy clients. They developed a distinctive style that utilized tenets of Japanese design mixed with the Arts and Crafts movement. This armchair was produced for the dining room of the house they designed for Robert R. Blacker. Located in Pasadena, the house survives, but not in its original condition, which featured a unified interior with woodwork, lighting, and furniture designed en suite. Made by Peter and John Hall's Workshop (also in Pasadena), the tall-back armchair featured expensive woods, intricate carving, and delicate inlay of silver, copper, and mother-of-pearl. Japanese influences are manifested in the silhouette, the inlaid wood, and the decorative details, including the brackets and pegs. Greene and Greene achieved a high level of quality in the craftsmanship of their designs.