From collection Furniture
Blanket chest
In rural areas like eastern Long Island, the simple chest with drawers was probably the most common type of case-furniture made. Family tradition states that this chest was a wedding present for Mary Cooper, the daughter of cabinetmaker Caleb Cooper. Cooper's account book reveals that in 1785 he had charged 16 shillings for a "Chest with 2 Drawers" presumably a piece similar to this one. The original red vermilion paint found on this example was frequently used on furniture constructed of simple wood such as pine.
Details
Blanket chest
41.25 x 41 x 19.5 in.
Pine blanket chest with two drawers, lift top, and ogee bracket feet; inscribed on the inside of the top of the chest: "Mary Cooper, Southampton, April 29, 1809"; original vermillion red paint, brass pulls, and iron fistail hinges.
Inscribed under lift-top: "Mary Cooper Southampton April 29 1809"
Descended in the Cooper family of Sag Harbor, NY
1998.8
Gift of Hobart D. Betts III Foundation
