American Art Desk Made in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States, North and Central America1870-71 Designed by Frank Furness, American, 1839 - 1912. Made by Daniel Pabst, American (born Germany), 1826 - 1910. Walnut, walnut veneer, rosewood (knobs), brass, iron, steel, glass * Gallery 117, American Art, first floor 1974-224-1 Gift of George Wood Furness, 1974 |
LabelFrank Furness’s rejection of historicist design in favor of a bold and unorthodox juxtaposition of architectural forms. The horseshoe arch as well as the stylized patterns and dynamic interplay of intaglio (incised) and relief carving are details that Furness also used in his buildings, including the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts on Broad and Cherry Streets, completed five years after the desk. The incised ornament echoes the stylized natural forms made popular by British designer Christopher Dresser (1834–1904). These features are also characteristic of furniture made by Philadelphia cabinetmaker Daniel Pabst, who made this desk and the bookcases and other woodwork for Horace’s study.* Works in the collection are moved off view for many different reasons. Although gallery locations on the website are updated regularly, there is no guarantee that this object will be on display on the day of your visit. |
