William Birch

Armchair

Date
Materials Elm, stained
Dimensions 103.3 cm x 49.5 cm x 59.0 cm
Marks Stamped under seat: "1505"
Further information GLAHA 53570.

Note The chair is of the American Windsor type with a tall back, plain back rail, shaped seat and outcurved arms. It is uncertain whether this piece of furniture belonged to Whistler or to his wife’s family. The chair appears in a photograph [link/illustration – GUL Special Collections BP II 26/6?] of Ethel Philip, Whistler’s sister-in-law.

Unknown

Armchair

Date Late 18th century
Materials Painted beechwood frame with waxed leather, studded upholstery and horsehair padding
Dimensions 77.1 cm x 58.9 cm x 55.8 cm
Marks Stamp under front edge: "I. B. Sene"
Further information GLAHA 53573.

Note This upholstered armchair in the Louis XVI style has an arched back and serpentine seat. The frame is painted light grey. It is uncertain whether this piece of furniture belonged to Whistler or to his wife’s family, although Whistler was known to collect 18th century furniture. The chair does appear in a photograph [link/illustration - GUL Special Collections BP III 9/5?] of Beatrix Whistler’s mother, Frances Birnie Philip.