Chair, Barber's
Object number95.148.1
Manufacturer
Theo A. Kochs Company
Mediummetal; enamel; wood; vinyl; rubber
Credit LineGift of Robert Bruno
DescriptionGreen and white barber chair. Cylindrical base, metal enameled white with rubber ring. Over-stuffed seat covered with green vinyl material. White enameled arm rests. Two leather sharpening straps (razor strop) hang on a hook under the right armrest. Padding behind footrest and on support which goes behind knees. Floral decoration in metal of this support and footrest.Dimensions42 x 26 x 44 in. (106.7 x 66 x 111.8 cm)MarksMark on footrest: "Theo A Kochs Chicago".
Mark on footplate: "Manufactured by....Pat'd..."; earliest date is 5/10/1910 and latest date is 7/7/1914.
Historical NotesBelonged to Robert Bruno.Label TextThe image of a gregarious, mustached barber with a thick Old World accent is perhaps the most common stereotype of the Italian American male. Like all stereotypes, this has some basis in truth. In Pittsburgh, many immigrants from Italy gravitated to the trade of barbering due to the promise of steady employment and the ease of learning the skill through familial and community connections.
Terms
On View
On viewQuickie Designs, Inc.
Invacare Corporation
American Seating Inc.
2011-2019