Cochran Family Wicker Settee, c. 1881

This settee originally was one of a five-piece suite (three pieces survive today) of wicker that, by family tradition, was the first furniture that Thomas and Bessie Cochran purchased after their marriage in 1881. The settee features intricate scrolling and rosette motifs.

Though modern Americans might think immediately of outdoor entertaining when we hear “wicker,” this breathable furniture was popular indoors during the 19th and early 20th century, particularly in hot climates such as Texas.