A NORTH AMERICAN EBONISED WINDSOR SETTLE, MANNER OF DANIEL CARTERET (W. 1786-1830), PHILADELPHIA C.18TH CENTURY the back splat with ring turned supports, with downward scroll swept arms above a dish seat on slightly splayed legs, joined on stretchers. 93cm high, 265cm wide, 57cm deep Provenance: Dawesfield House, Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, USA Lots 92 - 175 form part of the original contents of Dawesfield, Lewis Lane, Ambler, Montgomery County, Pennsylvania - an iconic American farmhouse built by Abraham Dawes and by descent through generations of the female line. It served as the Revolutionary Headquarters of General George Washington from 20th October until 2nd November, 1777. During the eighteenth century, Philadelphia stood out as one of America’s most culturally and ethnically diverse cities. This environment of diversity allowed for a process of cultural blending in Philadelphia’s decorative arts, leading to the emergence of locally distinct vernacular traditions. Religious connections across various cultural groups played a significant role in this process. Immigrant craftsmen, bringing with them transatlantic styles, played a crucial role in shaping the region’s unique furniture traditions, solidifying Philadelphia’s position as a hub of the cabinetmaking trade in early America. This resulted in the development of a highly specific and recognisable regional furniture tradition. While this tradition continued to influence furniture design beyond the city limits, it took on more localised and individualised forms, with craftsmen in surrounding areas developing their own construction and decorative techniques.