George Jakob Hunzinger
Side Chair

Public Domain

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Maker George Jakob Hunzinger(American, born Germany, 1835–1898)American, born Germany, 1835–1898

CultureAmerican

Titles

Side Chair

Datec. 1869

Made inNew York, New York, United States

MediumBlack walnut, ash, and upholstery (not original)

Dimensions34 3/4 × 19 1/2 × 18 3/4 in. (88.3 × 49.5 × 47.6 cm)

Credit LineThe Bayou Bend Collection, gift of Dr. and Mrs. Mavis P. Kelsey

Object numberB.75.57

Non exposé

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Department

Bayou Bend

Object Type

FURNITURE

DescriptionGeorge Hunzinger trained as a cabinetmaker in Württemberg, Germany, before immigrating to New York City in 1855. He became a prosperous manufacturer of innovative, mass-produced furniture. His machine-inspired designs were popular during the latter half of the 19th century, and Hunzinger is also recognized today as a pioneer of new construction techniques and progressive design. Examples such as this side chair are often referred to as "patent furniture." Hunzinger received 21 patents during his career for a range of production techniques to improve efficiency, such as the use of interchangeable parts, as well as designs for versatile furniture, such as folding, reclining, and rocking chairs.
ProvenanceMary Wilson Kelsey and Dr. Mavis P. Kelsey, Houston; given to MFAH, 1975.
Inscriptions, Signatures and Marks

Stamped on back of seat: HUNZINGER / N.Y. / PAT. MARCH 30 / 1869

Cataloguing data may change with further research.

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