The caning of this chair seat is made from the bark of rattan, a vine-like plant native to tropical regions of Asia and Africa. Prior to electric fans and air conditioning, woven or cane seats were popular in the humid climate of Maryland, since the open pattern provided breathability and an easy-to-clean surface. When a weaver in the Finlay furniture factory crafted this seat, Baltimore’s harbor was rapidly becoming a center for global trade. Much like today’s trade economy, the raw materials for this chair were sourced from around the world before being transported to Baltimore, where they were assembled into a final piece and then sold for a profit. While international trade supports the global economy, using local renewable or recycled materials to create goods like furniture can support a healthier environment.