Test Figure, "Jake," Made for and Used by La-Z-Boy, 1980-1983
THF162660 / Test Figure, "Jake," Made for and Used by La-Z-Boy, 1980-1983
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Artifact Overview
During the 1980s, La-Z-Boy -- like other manufacturers of the time -- embraced new production technologies and testing standards. The company, known for its comfortable reclining chairs, opened a testing facility that became home to this carved maple figure. In response to the new science of ergonomic, "Jake" tested chairs for durability and support.
Artifact Details
Artifact
Figure (Representation)
Date Made
1980-1983
Place of Creation
Creator Notes
Wooden pattern figure created by Clarence R. Kohler while in the employ of the manufacturer, La-Z-Boy.
Location
Not on exhibit to the public.
Object ID
2015.78.3
Credit
From the Collections of The Henry Ford. Gift of La-Z-Boy, Incorporated.
Material
Maple (Wood)
Metal
Dimensions
Height: 76.5 in
Width: 25.5 in
Length: 9 in
Inscriptions
front, white tag on chest:
JAKE
dummy's left shoulder, tag on disc below hole:
La-Z-Boy Incorporated / ID: 1549 / Desc.: Jake Mannequin / By: Devin O'Brien / Done: 8/15/2012 / Due: 8/15/2017
metal tag on dummy's back, lower right:
La-Z-Boy 1549
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Related Content
SetTechnological Innovations at La-Z-Boy
- 19 Artifacts
In 1927, Edwin Shoemaker and Edward Knabusch -- cousins with a shared interest in building things -- founded a furniture-making business. Their ambition to create new products (and to improve upon existing ones) became a defining characteristic of the company. This group of artifacts represents La-Z-Boy's history of innovation motivated by consumers' ever-changing tastes and demands.