Very Fine and Rare Chippendale Carved Mahogany Pole Screen, Philadelphia, circa 1770

Harry A. Batten (1897-1966), Philadelphia, Pennsylvania;
Thence by descent to his daughter;
Christie's, New York, Important American furniture, Silver, Folk Art and Decorative Arts, June 19, 1996, sale 8416, lot 151;
Alan Miller, Quakertown, Pennsylvania.

A similar example is illustrated in Horner, Blue Book Philadelphia Furniture, (Washington, D. C., 1935, rpt. 1977), pl. 144.

Needlework replaced, frame appears to be original. Needlework Frame: 17 by 16 in.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The fireplace was an architectural, decorative and social focal point of most 18th century homes. Polescreens enabled the sitter closest to the fire to be shielded from the heat and allowed them to read or sew without the distraction of the flickering of flames.  The adjustable screen was usually fitted with a piece of needlework worked by an accomplished daughter of the household.

With turned pillar, compressed ball, and ball and claw feet, this pole screen exhibits all of the quintessential characteristics of early Chippendale Philadelphia furnishings.  Made from the same principle as round tea tables, polescreens consist of a single turned pedestal supported by a tripartite base.  Like other tripod furniture, polescreens could be purchased with carving for an additional cost.