Unidentified
Cellarette
1815-1840
Physical Qualities
Mahogany, mahogany veneers; tulip poplar secondary wood, 21 3/8 x 27 3/4 x 19 3/8 in. (54.3 x 70.5 x 49.2 cm.)
Credit Line
Gift of Mrs. Francis White, from the Collection of Mrs. Miles White, Jr.
Object Number
1973.76.230
During the classical revival, ancient designs and forms were often applied to modern pieces of furniture. Adapted from a Roman sarcophagus (a coffin made of stone), this bold type of container proved as popular in neoclassical Baltimore dining rooms as its predecessor had been in ancient sepulchers. The cellarette or “little cellar” kept bottles of wine or spirits handy for family and guests. The cellarette’s interior is fitted to hold individual bottles, but similar forms were lined with metal to allow use as a wine cooler.
The Baltimore Museum of Art, by gift, 1973; Nancy Brewster White (Mrs. Francis), Baltimore, Maryland, by 1973; Francis White, Baltimore, Maryland; Mrs. Miles White, Jr., Baltimore, Maryland; sale, 31 May 1910; J. Latimer Hoffman, Jr., Baltimore, Maryland, by 1910.
Elder III, William Voss and Jayne E. Stokes. American Furniture 1680-1880: From the Collection of the Baltimore Museum of Art. Baltimore: Museum of Art, 1987, p.177-178, ill.137.
Maker
Unidentified
On View: American Wing Second Floor, Scott 06
