American Empire

Bouchelle Changing Gallery
Open June 5, 2021 through January 2, 2022

Upon the establishment of the new Republic in the United States of America, its first citizens adopted much from French neo-classicism to give the new Republic the same dignified appearance they felt it deserved. Sometimes known as "American Federal," the first style adopted by our new country in the early 19th century clearly reflected the great style of the revolution in France. The Museum of Arts & Sciences brings together in this exhibition fine examples of American Empire furniture, decorative arts, and period paintings from its collection to illustrate the transition from French to American in these works as the artists and craftsmen of the new United States attempted to make the style uniquely American. 

Image Credit: Seth Thomas, American, 1785-1859, Shelf Clock, c. 1835. Wood and reverse-painted glass. Gift of Kenneth Worcester Dow and Mary Mohan Down. 89.16.066