Sideboard

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Sideboard

Artist Workshop of John and Thomas Seymour (American, active 1794 -1816)

Dateabout 1805-1810

DimensionsH: 42 in. (106.6 cm); Depth: 28 in. (71.2 cm); L (front): 80 in. (203.2 cm); L (back): 77 in. (195.5 cm)

MediumCarved mahogany with mahogany veneers

ClassificationFurniture

Credit LineGift of Mr. and Mrs. George P. MacNichol, Jr.

Object number

1976.4

Not on View

Label TextAfter gaining independence from Britain, Americans engaged in establishing a Constitution and forming a system of government. Ancient Greece and Rome served as models both for the founding fathers when framing a government and for craftsmen when furnishing homes. Boston furniture makers John Seymour and his son, Thomas, whose firm was active 1794–1816, were known for their stylish application of Greek and Roman design elements in their work. In this sideboard, oval, leaf-like carvings called paterae and vertical elements resembling classical columns reveal the inspiration of the ancient past. Designed for the storage and display of serving ware, as well as a surface for serving food, sideboards became increasingly popular in the 19th century as more Americans could afford a separate room devoted to dining.