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Shaker Tilting Chair Rendered by John W. Kelleher (artist), c. 1937 watercolor and graphite on paper overall: 30.5 x 25.5 cm (12 x 10 1/16 in.) Index of American Design 1943.8.17149 Not on View |
Object 7 of 17
Shaker simplicity is nowhere more evident than in chair design. Outwardly straightforward, each element of the design was carefully considered for greatest efficiency in use. This is a tilting chair named for the device attached to the back legs. A ball-and-socket joint was invented by the Shakers so that the chair could be tilted backward without having the legs scratch the floor or cause unnecessary wear of the rugs. Shaker chairs were famous for being light in weight yet sturdy. Because they were light they could be hung on the walls while the floors were being cleaned; their sturdiness provided durability over many years. The seat of this chair is made of cane. Caned chairs were uncommon except at the colony of Enfield, New Hampshire.
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