Rocking Chair c. 1936

John Cutting made this rocking chair, date unknown, from wood and woven material, likely a natural fiber such as rush or cane. The turned posts and ladder back are typical of vernacular furniture, emphasizing utility and comfort over high style. The chair was likely made using a combination of hand tools and simple machinery, reflecting a transition from craft-based production to early industrial methods. The woven seat shows an investment of time, and a skilled hand. The choice of materials would have been informed by the availability and affordability, pointing towards a local or regional origin. The labor involved in making this rocking chair—from harvesting the wood to weaving the seat—speaks to the value placed on handcraftsmanship within a specific social context. Paying attention to materials, making, and context allows us to understand the cultural and economic value of everyday objects like this rocking chair, blurring the lines between design and craft.