Please note that this event is on the FIRST Saturday of the month
Boston Banding, Paterae’s & Overlays-- a presentation by Michael Wheeler
In the Federal Period (1790-1820) Boston was a major Port and a beehive of skilled immigrants from Europe. Wealthy merchants expanded trade to the West Indies,China and Australia. As part of this trade they imported rare and expensive woods. Mechanical inventions and the harnessing of waterpower made sawing these imported woods into thin veneers possible. The continuing war with England and a blockade made imports, furniture ornamentation and hardware, non-existing so specialists filled the need. They were experimenting with new ideas that made their furniture stand out from other craftsmen. New and highly skilled specialists, known as banding makers, paterae makers and overlay makers were able to dye, sand shade, brand and saw those veneers into decorative geometric strips, pictorial flowers & shell pateraes and decorative overlays then inlaying them on furniture in the neoclassical style. Political designs of highly charged symbols, such as eagles, flags, Lady Liberty, Freemasons and brightly colored veneers added to the decorative schemes celebrating a new republic and the turn of the 18th century. The brightly colored veneers were lost to time, fading back to natural colors because of the use of non-colorfast dyes.
Allow extra time for parking, and consider carpooling.
The Eliot School is in a neighborhood with limited on street parking.
1.There are a few on-street parking spaces on Eliot st.
2. at the end of Eliot St, turn R at the statue, then another quick R. more spaces here behind the school. There is a cut in the fence and a sand path through the school yard towards the front door.
3. A bit further away is Municipal lot #6 on Burroughs St.
Please remember to bring your name tag, a folding chair, and $2 for coffee if you wish to partake.
As we often do, we'll try to organize a lunch outing for those who have time to stick around at noon. All are welcome.
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