Armchair c. 1912 - 1913

This armchair, made by William Gray Purcell, probably around the turn of the century, invites you to consider making and how it intertwines with daily life. I find myself focusing on the oak frame, how it’s been worked to be both sturdy and full of light. Look at how those vertical slats create a screen, allowing glimpses through. The way the wood is crafted, you can almost feel the maker's hand, the care taken to shape each piece. The green leather, smooth and inviting, hints at comfort and function. It's a practical object, but its beauty lies in the simplicity and the attention to detail. Purcell was working at the same time as the Vienna Secession, and you can see some of that influence. But unlike the Secessionists, he brings a distinctly American sensibility. His chair is as much sculpture as it is furniture. Art doesn’t always have to hang on a wall.