Now on sale is an amazing collection of six queen Anne walnut compass-seat side chairs from the Eddy Family Set. Considered to be created by one of the most esteemed 18th-century furniture designers, Job Townsend, these chairs are a shining illustration of traditional American design. The set, which dates back to about 1745, with well crafted compass-seats and historical relevance gives the auction special appeal.
Understanding the Chairs: A Glimpse into American Craftsmanship
Early in the 18th century, the Queen Anne style—which these chairs reflect—was rather fashionable. Particularly in the colonial era, Queen Anne furniture is significant in American history and reflects her modest and graceful designs.
Made of walnut, a wood extensively employed in 18th-century furniture manufacture, these six chairs are The compass-seat design is a specific feature of the period and adds to the overall value and appeal of the set.
These chairs are possibly the work of Job Townsend, a renowned cabinetmaker from Newport, Rhode Island. Townsend’s work is renowned for its great quality of materials and attention to detail. Originally belonging to the Eddy family collection, which links back to Warren, Rhode Island, the chairs are considerably more precious because of their well-documented pedigree.
History and Provenance of the Chairs
Provenance in the context of an item is its ownership history. The Eddy Family Set of Chairs has an amazing legacy of ownership, passed down through the Eddy family’s generations and subsequently via eminent collections.
Originally auctioned by the American Arts Association Anderson Galleries in 1930, the chairs have been on several auctions and displays thereafter. These thorough ownership records, sometimes referred to as the provenance, highlight the rich legacy of the set and hence assist to raise its worth.
Further confirming its significance are the chairs’ inclusion in many significant publications on American furniture. One such book highlighting the work of Job Townsend and associates is Master Craftsmen of Newport: The Townsends and Goddards by Michael Moses.
Condition and Details of the Chairs
Although the set of chairs is in great shape for their age, they do show minor wear and repair, which is typical of antiques this kind. Particularly in the legs and seat rails, several of the chairs have cracks and reglued areas; these problems are small and do not compromise the general integrity of the furniture. Furthermore preserved are the original slip seats, therefore enhancing the set’s authenticity.
Presumably about the middle of the 20th century, each chair has been painstakingly refurbished and varnished. The refurbishment was probably done while the chairs were still owned by the Sack collection, a big name in the American antique scene.
Why Are These Chairs Valuable?
Many elements help to explain the great worth of these seats. First of all, they are a fine illustration of 18th-century American workmanship of excellence. Their reputation is enhanced by their possible creation by renowned artisan Job Townsend.
Second, most of the original pieces are still there, hence the chairs are in really decent shape for their age. The chairs’ historical provenance—which follows their path across several noteworthy collections—also contributes to their worth.
At last, collectors of antique furniture—especially those drawn to American pieces from the colonial era—desire the Queen Anne design very highly. With a starting offer of $25,000, the expected cost for the set of six chairs thus varies from $50,000 to $100,000.
Auction Details
Leading auction house Freeman’s | Hindman will host the sale for these chairs on January 27, 2025, at 10:00 AM EST. Expectant attention from collectors and antique aficionados worldwide, the event will take place in New York, NY.
Shipping and Payment Information
Although Freeman’s | Hindman does not offer packaging and shipping options, they do have a list of suggested other shippers who could help to get the chairs to the buyer. Buyers should plan delivery seven business days following the conclusion of the auction. One can pay for the chairs by ACH, credit cards, or wire transfers among other ways.
A Rare Opportunity to Own a Piece of American History
For collectors and antique aficionados, the Eddy Family Set of Six Queen Anne Walnut Compass-Seat Side Chairs presents a rare chance to possess a bit of American history. Any collection would benefit from their workmanship, historical relevance, and provenance documentation.
More than just functional furniture, these chairs—which range in value from $50,000 to $100,000—are works of art spanning millennia that highlight the skill and handiwork of early American cabinetsmen.
This collection of chairs is a great find regardless of your level of experience collecting antiques or newness into the field. Don’t miss your opportunity to bid and maybe possess one of the best specimens of American 18th-century handwork.
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