Italian Neoclassical Figural Giltwood & Zoomorphic Armchair W/ Scalamandre Velvet C. 1820

Details

Description

Italian, possibly 18th century - but conservatively 1820 with later paint.

This Italian Neoclassical armchair, circa 1820, is a masterful … Read more Italian, possibly 18th century - but conservatively 1820 with later paint.

This Italian Neoclassical armchair, circa 1820, is a masterful example of the craftsmanship and artistic ingenuity characteristic of early 19th-century design. The painted gray frame is adorned with intricate giltwood carvings, epitomizing the classical elegance and mythological symbolism that defined the period.

The armrests are supported by exquisitely carved female figures, rendered in giltwood with exceptional detail, embodying the grace and poise of classical sculpture. The side rails are richly decorated with zoomorphic dolphins expelling snakes, a dynamic and allegorical motif executed in the manner of Jean Joseph Chapuis, a celebrated cabinetmaker of the era. The verso of the legs is ornamented with finely carved Grecian god masks, further enhancing the chair's classical iconography, while lion paw feet provide a bold and majestic foundation.

The upholstery is fashioned from luxurious Scalamandré cut velvet, its geometric grid pattern harmonizing with the neoclassical motifs and adding a refined tactile dimension to the piece. This chair is not merely a functional object but a work of art, encapsulating the intersection of mythology, symbolism, and artistry in Italian furniture design of the early 19th century.

With its harmonious blend of aesthetic and historical significance, this armchair stands as a testament to the opulence and sophistication of Italian Neoclassicism, making it a distinguished addition to any collection or museum dedicated to decorative arts.

Measures:
36.5" h x 27"w x 26" d
29" h - arms
19" h - seat See less