American Quarter-Sawn Oak Hall Tree with Mirror, c.1900

Story

Victorian entryways were social staging grounds where visitors left calling cards. This hall tree was designed to impress guests immediately upon entering, signaling the homeowner's taste, orderliness, and middle-class prosperity.

Maker / Origin

While unsigned, this piece is highly characteristic of the prolific furniture manufacturers of Grand Rapids, Michigan, which was known as 'Furniture City' at the turn of the century. Companies like the Grand Rapids Chair Co. or Imperial Furniture Company perfected the mass-production of high-quality, quarter-sawn oak pieces that brought elegant design to the American middle class.

Condition & Value

The wood finish appears to be in very good, clean condition with a warm honey patina. The brass hooks and mirror appear original, though the mirror glass may have minor silvering loss. The metal drip pans that sit in the bottom wells of the umbrella stands appear to be missing, which is common but slightly reduces value.