In 18th-century America, imported fabric was more valuable than locally sourced wood. Chairs, sofas, and settees relied heavily upon expensive upholstery (aptly called “show covers”) for their visual impact. Today, few 18th-century seating pieces retain original upholstery, but evidence of earlier coverings often can be gleaned from nail patterns or an occasional remaining thread. The discovery of a chair surviving in its completely original state (however tattered) is something of an event. Related to the BMA example, another Massachusetts easy chair with original coverings came to light in the mid-1980s, providing an explanation for nail patterns on our frame. Since brass nails could be applied more quickly and cheaply than woven trims, economic considerations as well as aesthetics must have prompted this unusual combination.