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American, New York City
Couch, 1815 - 1825, maple, gilt paint, cane, other woods.
Bequest of Mrs. Leonard T. Davidson
Conservation funded by The Alliance of The Speed Art Museum, 1999 1970.31.9.2

In the early nineteenth century the fashionable American consumer was likely to furnish a home in the Grecian style. This style originated in France and was popular in England at the time. American furniture makers would have learned about the trend by looking at published designs, imported pieces and the work of their competition. This couch, one of a pair in the Speed’s collection, would have easily found a place in a stylish American home. This particular piece was made and decorated by two distinct sets of artisans,a cabinetmaker and a decorative painter. Looking at the form of the couch and the painted decoration one can easily see the influence of ancient Greek and Roman architecture, art and artifacts.