Sofa
about 1815–182534 x 89 1/2 x 25 1/2 in. (86.36 x 227.33 x 64.77 cm)
Probably Michael Allison (American, 1773–1855)
Creation Place:
New York City
Medium:
Mahogany with mahogany veneers, brass casters, and modern upholstery
Credit Line:
Museum purchase
Accession Number:
1932.161
Currently on View in:
Music Room (14)
Exhibition History
Cincinnati, Ohio. Taft Museum of Art. In a New Light: Treasures from the Taft, July 3, 2021–May 1, 2022.
Gallery Label
Michael Allison created stylish designs for wealthy Americans. Characterized by its rich materials and strong sculptural decoration, this sofa is graced with elegant, curved armrests that flow into a horizontal seat rail. On opposite ends, two rectangular surrounds enclose designs resembling ribbon-tied swags of drapery. Lion’s paw feet, realistically modeled and finely carved, provide support. On each of the front two feet, four eagle feathers—symbolizing the new nation’s independence—sweep back toward the center of the sofa.
Provenance
Acquired by Louis Guerineau Myers, New York, NY; (consigned to American Art Association, Anderson Galleries, Inc., New York, NY); purchased by the Taft Museum, Cincinnati, OH, April 8, 1932 (no. 337) [1]. Notes:
[1]. Until August 31, 2006, the Taft Museum of Art was owned by the Cincinnati Institute of Fine Arts (CIFA), administered by CIFA’s Board of Trustees, and governed by the Taft Museum Board of Overseers. On September 1, 2006, the Museum legally separated from CIFA and began operations as its own incorporated 501(c)(3) entity. This separate incorporation led to the transfer to the separate entity after August 31, 2006 of all tangible assets comprising the Taft collection.
Collection Lists
This artwork is in the following list(s):
