Lot 874: 2 TN 19th C. Chairs Incl. Dick Poyner

Two (2) Tennessee side chairs attributed to Williamson County makers Richard “DIck” Poyner and John Pickins, both of hickory and possibly maple and with later, rope-woven seats. The taller chair, attributed to Poyner, features arched slats and flattened ears and lower stiles and measures 36 in. H x 18 1/2 in. W x 17 in. D. The shorter chair, possibly by Pickins, features flat top slats, curved at the ends, and ring turning at the lower stiles and front legs, and measures 35 1/2 in. H x 17 1/2 in. W x 17 in D. Late 19th century. Note: Richard “Dick” Poyner (1802-1882) was born a slave in Halifax Co. VA and immigrated to Williamson County, TN, with the Robert Poyner family in 1816, settling near the present day Cool Springs Galleria. The Poyners were established craftsmen and it is assumed that Dick Poyner learned the furniture trade working in their shop. Unlike many slaves of that period, Dick Poyner was literate, and he obtained his freedom, and that of his second wife, Millie, between 1850 and 1860. By 1851 he was working at his horse powered chair factory near present day Leiper’s Fork with his son, James. His chairs have been treasured by generations of Tennessee families for their simple elegance and legendary durability. Less is known about John Pickins; he is believed to have lived and worked in Marshall and/or Williamson County. Although the present chair is not marked, it is similar to other known examples marked J.P. (Ref. Rick Warwick, “Williamson County: More than a Good Place to Live”, pp.15-16, 32). 

PROVENANCE: The estate of Ann B. Lee, Franklin, TN.

CONDITION: Both chairs exhibit age-related shrinkage cracks and wear, dry surfaces, slightly loose joints, and later seats. 1st chair: Small chips and some scratching to slats. 2nd chair: Looser joints than first chair, some signs of old pest damage to back of stiles.