American Three-Piece Mahogany Parlor Suite

ca. 1900, attributed to S. Karpen & Bros., Chicago, Illinois, comprised of a settee, h. 39-1/2", w. 51", d. 23-1/2", an armchair, h. 39-1/2", w. 29-1/4", d. 22", and a side chair, h. 37-3/4", w. 27-1/2", d. 20-3/4", each incorporating a blend of Art Nouveau, "Empire" and Neo-Renaissance design motifs, and having an exuberantly carved crest rail centered by a cabochon-centered cartouche, flanked by carved serpents, the ends with allegorical Renaissance female masques, and with carved paw feet, the settee and armchair with open arms on scroll supports.


Notes: The Karpen firm was founded in 1880. By the turn of the century, their innovative use of carving machines, together with traditional old world carving craftsmanship, had elevated the firm to be among the elite American furniture manufacturers. Karpen, together with their cross-town competitor, the Tobey Furniture Company, produced some of the most noteworthy Art Nouveau furniture made in the country.

The surfaces have been polished, probably French-polished, in the not-too-distant past. They are now in quite good condition with a handful of typical perimeter abrasions. All arms, legs and backs are tight. Pieces are sturdy and stable. Some wear and soiling to the upholstery; it retains good shape.