Oak Armchairs with Lion Carvings, 1880, Set of 2

Details

Description

A magnificent pair of monumental solid oak armchairs, custom-made around 1880 for a hunting lodge in Belgium. These armchairs are … Read more A magnificent pair of monumental solid oak armchairs, custom-made around 1880 for a hunting lodge in Belgium. These armchairs are distinguished by their exceptional craftsmanship and a striking historicist style typical of the luxurious château interiors of the late 19th century.

The solid oak structure is richly detailed with turned elements and decorative carvings. Of particular note are the high-relief lion heads terminating the front of the armrests; the carving is executed with great precision, especially in the modeling of the manes, mouths, and facial features. The robust base, featuring a system of turned stretchers, lends the armchairs not only a distinctive decorative character but also excellent stability.

Both armchairs have undergone a complete professional restoration. In an artisan cabinetmaker's workshop, the structure was disassembled as necessary, then securely re-glued and reinforced. The oak surfaces were subsequently professionally treated with an unpolished shellac finish, preserving the wood's natural character and grain.

This was followed by a complete restoration in an upholstery workshop. The upholstery was rebuilt using traditional spring-based techniques and African grass filling, then covered in a high-quality decorative fabric featuring a subtle floral pattern that perfectly complements the armchairs' historic style. The tall upholstered backrest, wide seat, and padded armrests ensure excellent seating comfort. with their matching design, distinctive lion carvings, and documented Belgian provenance, these armchairs form an exceptionally decorative set suitable for a stately historic interior, a chateau, a hunting room, a library, or a study.

Date: Circa 1880
Provenance: Belgium; originally custom-made for a hunting lodge
Material: Solid oak, upholstery
Condition: Fully professionally restored; excellent condition

Dimensions of a single armchair: height 117.5 cm, seat height 50 cm, width 68 cm, depth 77 cm. See less