Side chair from the Moorish reception room of the Worsham-Rockefeller House
Returned to lender
This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.Made en suite with the Moorish-themed reception room, this delicate side chair demonstrates trompe l’oeil effects. The sitter’s back is supported by a swag of fabric secured at the upper corners of the frame with elaborate tassels, while the carved and gilded inner edge of the back simulates gold ribbon, blurring the distinction between fabric and wood and creating a unified design of color and pattern. Characteristic Moorish details include the color scheme, the domed finials, the geometric star piercings on the front and side seat rails, and the stylized floral designs of the upholstery. At the same time, its overall ebonized form recalls the delicate side chairs of British Reform designer E. W. Godwin.
Artwork Details
- Title: Side chair from the Moorish reception room of the Worsham-Rockefeller House
- Maker: George A. Schastey & Co. (American, New York, 1873–1897)
- Maker: George A. Schastey (American (born Germany), Merseburg 1839–1894 at sea)
- Date: 1881–82
- Geography: Made in New York, New York, United States
- Culture: American
- Medium: Ebonized cherry, brass, and original appliqués on later upholstery
- Dimensions: Approx. 27 1/2 x 18 x 19 in.
- Credit Line: Brooklyn Museum, Gift of John D. Rockefeller, Jr.
- Curatorial Department: The American Wing