Object Description
A model of a Nathan Thompson Jr patent folding life preserving seat, circa 1853. This unusual rosewood model of a seat is in the form of a stool split down the middle. It comprises a sealed air-tight unit fitted inside each half of the seat. The whole piece unfolds at the hinged legs, which are then secured with sprung loaded clasps. It is painted overall with two empty cartouches within gold lines. There is a silver label on an inner face inscribed ‘Patent Folding Life Preserving Seat Invented by Nathan Thompson Jr., New York USA. 1853.’
Height: 5½ inches (14cm) Width: 5 inches (12.5cm) Depth: 4¼ inches (11cm.) Length open: 10¾ inches (27.5cm)