Antique Pair of Flemish Heavily Carved Ebonized Armchairs, Circa Mid-19th Century

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Antique Pair of Flemish Heavily Carved Ebonized Armchairs, Circa Mid-19th Century

A spectacular and dramatically presence pair of mid-19th century … Read more Antique Pair of Flemish Heavily Carved Ebonized Armchairs, Circa Mid-19th Century

A spectacular and dramatically presence pair of mid-19th century Flemish armchairs, richly carved and ebonized to a deep, lustrous darkness that only deepens their theatrical appeal. Pieces of this scale, carving quality, and decorative impact are increasingly difficult to find as pairs — making this a genuinely rare opportunity for collectors, designers, and discerning interior enthusiasts alike.
The ebonized frames are lavishly embellished with foliate and floral carvings throughout — cascading across the heavily carved crest rail, sweeping along the arms, and continuing down the seat frames in a continuous celebration of the carver's art. The tall backs, standing an impressive 54 inches, lend the chairs an almost throne-like authority, while the X-stretcher bases ground the form with a satisfying sense of Baroque solidity. The overall effect is one of great richness and depth — chairs that command attention in any room they inhabit.
At 25 inches wide at the arms with a comfortable 18-inch seat, they are well-proportioned for actual use as well as display. The upholstered cushions and seats present with estate soiling and would benefit from fresh upholstery — an opportunity to introduce color and textile that will only enhance the drama of the carved ebonized frames. Seats are supported by plywood, which is easily upgraded by an upholsterer. One chair has an old repair to the X-stretcher, structurally sound and consistent with the age of the pieces. The dry dark surface will benefit from regular oil polishing to maintain and enrich the ebonized finish over time.
A commanding pair that would be equally at home flanking a fireplace, anchoring a grand entry hall, or adding dramatic punctuation to a library or dining room.
Dimensions: 25"W (at arms) × 25"D (at base) × 54"H; seat 18"W × 18"D × 19"H
Material: Ebonized wood
Decoration: Heavily carved foliate and floral carvings throughout
Origin: Flemish, Circa Mid-19th Century
Condition: Old dry surface — will benefit from regular oil polish; estate soiling on cushions; old repair to X-stretcher on one chair; wear consistent with age and use. Sold as a pair. See less