Slipper Chair 1852 - 1855

This Slipper Chair was created by John Henry Belter, most likely in the 1850s. The chair's frame is made of laminated rosewood, with upholstery on the seat. Belter was a master of laminated wood, a technique that involves gluing thin layers of wood together and then shaping them, allowing for incredible strength and intricate designs. Note the elaborate floral carvings, almost lace-like, on the chair's back. This wasn't just decoration; the method allowed Belter to create furniture that was both visually stunning and structurally sound. But here's where it gets interesting: this chair tells us about the rise of industrial production. Belter's workshop wasn't just a craft studio; it was a factory, complete with specialized labor and patented machinery. He was one of the first to use steam-powered saws to cut out the elaborate designs, a process that drastically reduced production time. This chair embodies both the virtuosity of a skilled craftsman and the efficiencies of industrialized production. It's a testament to how new technologies changed the landscape of furniture making forever.