Chair c. 1938

This chair was made by Clyde L. Cheney, using wood and upholstery. Note the chair's sturdy wooden frame, which gives it weight and presence. The plush upholstery, in vibrant red and patterned gold, softens the overall effect, promising comfort. The production process has imbued this chair with social significance, showcasing a blend of traditional craftsmanship and industrial techniques. The use of wooden frames and upholstery reflects an engagement with furniture-making traditions, while its elegant lines reflect influence from design and fine arts, challenging traditional distinctions between them. The amount of work involved in creating a chair like this is considerable, from sourcing and preparing the materials to the skilled labor of construction and upholstery. Paying attention to the materials, the making, and the context allows us to fully understand this work.