Stool
Three-legged stool with saddle-shaped seat, used in the medicine shop of the Center Family, Mount Lebanon, NY
Description
Three-legged stool with two sets of stretchers. Saddle shaped, triangular seat, padded and covered with brown leather.
Notes
This three-legged stool was used at the table at which bottles filled with liquid medicines received their cork stoppers. It is a rare if not unique form of Shaker work stool. The saddle-shaped leather seat appears to have been made to provide added comfort to the sitter or possibly to make it more suitable for women in Shaker dresses. The bottom stretcher between the legs beneath the broad side of the seat has been replaced. This stretcher appears to be missing in a photograph showing the stool taken by William F. Winter around 1931.
References: William F. Winter photograph published in Edward Deming Andrews, Community of the Shakers, New York State Museum Handbook 15 (Albany, NY: The University of the State of New York, 1932), figure 20, p. 108. Kirk, John T. and Jerry V. Grant. "Forty Untouched Masterpieces of Shaker Design." Antiques 135 (May 1989): 1226-1337. Plate V.
New York Mount Lebanon Center Family
