hard to find early “uhl art steel” adjustable height factory office single spider swivel or "revolving" stool designed and fabricated by joseph f. uhl for the toledo metal furniture co., toledo, oh. the hard to find c. 1905-10 stationary stool features a distinctive base containing a single set of four inner concave metal straps or u-shaped metal leg standards joined to the cabriole style legs. together, the plurality of flared edge standards form the visually distinctive patented “spider” brace. the riveted joint components are comprised of “indestructible” heavy gauge sheet-steel formed with suitable dies. the solid steel threaded spindle rotates upwards and downwards within the partially enclosed head or sleeve mounted where the legs converge. the circular seat contains a refinished birch wood inset enclosed by a folded and riveted joint outer rim. the toledo metal furniture company, manufacturer of uhl art steel furniture offered to druggists and soda dispensers, factories and offices a line of convenient, durable, economical and serviceable steel furniture. the uhl idea was conceived and the first chair brought into existence through the “sweat of the brows” of the uhl brothers, joe and clem, in a small bicycle repair shop in toledo, several years ago. this first chair when completed, although crude in comparison with the present-day product, proved the idea a success. it at once established the u-shaped formation of cold-rolled steel as the most ingenious method invented for securing in the legs of chairs, stands and tables a maximum of strength with a minimum of weight without any sacrifice of appearance. it proved that the novel patented truss-locking device was a marvel of simplicity and strength. this factory chair is one of the earliest examples fabricated by the uhl brothers. original copper-plated finish remains partially intact. measures 14 1/2 in diameter x 22 inches high.