Object Record
Images
Metadata
Catalog Number |
F32-Desk |
Object Name |
Desk |
Title |
Medical Desk, or "The Caspar Wistar Medical Desk" |
Date |
ca. 1780 |
Description |
Chippendale double-pedestal medical desk, ca. 1780. Molded rectangular top formed by a pair of hinged ends which open outward (each contains a lid and a storage space within). These flank a lift-up center section. Opened, a fitted work surface (covered with green baize, and a pigeonhold seciton with two ivory drawer pulls) is exposed with a fall-front mock drawer. All of this section surmounts a conforming cockbeaded wide drawer with continuous case moldings. The twin pedestals beneath are each fitted with a graduate series of three cockbeaded drawers which are flanked by large brass carrying-handles to the sides, all above a continuous deep base molding. (Murphy D. Smith, "Due Reverence," 1992). |
Label |
Immediately after Caspar Wistar's death in 1818, his widow presented this Chippendale kneehole desk, made in Philadelphia, to the APS. A leading physician, teacher, and APS member, Wistar became president of the APS in 1815, succeeding Thomas Jefferson. After receiving his bachelor's degree in medicine in 1779 from the University of the State of Pennsylvania (which later merged with the College of Philadelphia to form the University of Pennsylvania), Wistar traveled abroad to pursue further training. He returned to Philadelphia in 1787 to practice and teach medicine. Wistar became famous for holding receptions, called "Wistar Parties," at his home to discuss science, medicine, and philosophy. When Wistar died in 1818, the APS participated in a procession commemorating the esteemed physician. This desk remained in Philosophical Hall for decades, yet its provenance was forgotten until I. Minis Hays rediscovered its history in the early 20th century. Hays, who planned Benjamin Franklin's centennial, also organized a centennial of Wistar's death in 1918. |
Material |
Mahogany |
Dimensions |
H-35.75 W-44.875 D-24.125 inches |
Credit line |
American Philosophical Society. Gift of Mrs. Caspar Wistar, 1818-19. |
Search Terms |
18th century eighteenth century furniture APS President |