Mahogany and yellow pine
Attributed to the Anthony Hay shop
Williamsburg, Virginia
c. 1770-1790
Gift of Mrs. Richard N. Lanier The term "press" was used in the 18th century for storage furniture. This piece has shelves for books in both the upper and lower cases.

The interlocking joint between the lower and upper cases and the stacked horizontal footblocks are characteristics of cabinetmaking shops located in urban eastern Virginia. The construction details of this piece such as the footblocks, sliding shelves, interlocking joint, and the evidence of a brass escutcheon on the upper right door suggest this bookpress may have been made in the Anthony Hay shop of Williamsburg.
Stacked Foot Block

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Last Updated: January 2, 2008