John W. Cleveland
(American, 1830–1901)
Desk with Cupboard, 1886
Union Grove, Wisconsin
Walnut, pine, oak, maple, spelted maple, bird’s-eye maple, ebony, rosewood, and satinwood with poplar
Lent by Hirschl and Adler Galleries (check w/ Sarah for new MAM credit line)

John W. Cleveland made this hanging cupboard while working as a wagon maker in the city of Union Grove, Racine County. Born in New York State, Cleveland came to Wisconsin in 1864. The fretwork on the outer doors includes Cleveland’s initials as well as initials of unidentified individuals. The fretwork on the interior of the cupboard is even more intricate, featuring rural scenes including a farmhouse, maple trees and deer, as well as the text “J.W. Cleveland, Union Grove, Jan Wis, 1886.”

Close ups of the interior