The discovery of the fan chair was a welcome breeze of fresh air for George Washington during the heated political debate of the 1787 Constitutional Convention. The chair's fan was operated by pressing down with the foot, leaving hands free for reading and writing. The chair, designed by Washington's friend, Charles Willson Peale, has an important presence in the Mansion study. The fan chair is one of only a few remaining 18th century examples of Peale's inventiveness and Washington's love of innovation. 24 kt gold finish.