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Desk and Bookcase

Artist Culture
American
Maker
carving attributed to John Welch, American, 1711–1789
Date
1750–60
Material
Mahogany, white pine, white cedar, brass, reproduction mirrored glass, and gilding
made in
Boston, Massachusetts, United States, North and Central America
Classification
Furniture
Current Location
On View, Gallery 338
Dimensions
98 3/4 x 38 9/16 x 23 9/16 in. (250.8 x 97.9 x 59.8 cm)
Credit Line
Museum Shop Fund
Rights
Contact Us
Object Number
84:1989a,b
NOTES
The flat columns with Corinthian capital tops, sprig of acanthus foliage, and pediment with facing scrolls seen on this desk and bookcase are motifs taken from ancient Rome. These desks were the busy work stations for Boston’s 18th-century merchants. The classical elements would have satisfied an appreciation for culture in the midst of the more practical business world. The desk is attributed to John Welch, Boston’s most important furniture carver of the period.