The Kindig Collection of Important American Furniture, Paintings, Silver & Decorative Art Heads to Sotheby’s

The upcoming Sotheby’s auction presents a Queen Anne easy chair from the Kindig Collection of American furniture and decorative art. The walnut and maple chair originally belonged to the reputed Massachusetts merchant Colonel George Watson. The circa 1755 piece is noteworthy for retaining its under-upholstery. The easy chair also has its original upholstered back with needlework. The floral hand embroidery on the upholstery is possibly the work of Phebe Thurston, Watson’s wife. The easy chair with the ‘tree of life motif’ is among the few surviving examples today.

Another highlight is a circa 1740 William and Mary quillwork wall sconce. Quillwork involved creating metal filigree patterns using metallic threads, gilded paper, feathers, quills, wire, and more. The art of quillwork received renewed interest in the 18th century. The available sconce is mounted in a shadow-box frame and has a candle holder. Also featured in the sale are portraits by the top colonial portraitist in America during the 1760s, John Durand. His artworks utilize the Rococo palette and a decorative approach. Durand’s works with women subjects often depict them holding a flower in one hand. The auction will also feature George I and George II furniture, silverware, and brass articles. Interested collectors can explore the entire catalog and register to bid online by visiting Sotheby’s.