Just as the galleries are getting renovated for the reinstallation of the American collection, so is the art. This table will be on view with its counterpart when the new galleries open in the spring of 2009.
Something interesting about this set of tables is who made them. John Townsend was a prominent furniture maker in Newport, Rhode Island in the mid to late 18th century. He was active in Newport circa 1756 to 1800 and after that his son and nephew both carried on the family business.
His furniture is beautiful but what excites collectors, curators and conservators is that he signed and dated many of his best pieces. This set is dated 1794. The tables will be stabilized and cleaned up for exhibition in the new galleries.
Comments (2)
Dear Jodi; In the cleaning/stabilizing process for the tables, would you like any help? I am a John Townsend fan and my family lived in Newport for 200 years during the Townsend/Goddard era of furniture making. I think I've read every book on them and have visited the museum in Newport.
Sincerely;
Dr. Mark L. Carr
Posted by Dr. Mark L. Carr | January 20, 2008 7:06 PM
Posted on January 20, 2008 19:06
Dear Dr. Carr,
I would love to learn more about the Townsends if you have anything you would like to share.
Posted by Jodi Olson-Kidney | January 22, 2008 3:43 PM
Posted on January 22, 2008 15:43