Pair of Antique Italian Renaissance Style Walnut Armchairs circa 1875

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Pair of Antique Italian Renaissance Style Walnut Armchairs circa 1875

About the Item

Receive our new selections direct from 1stdibs by email each week. Please click Follow Dealer below and see them first! A pair of antique Italian Renaissance style walnut armchairs featuring turned elements in a twist pattern circa 1875. These chairs are notable for the combination of a low and comfortably slanted back framed by the turned walnut supports that comprise the legs and arms. The shape of the chairs creates an angular impression because the straight legs are joined by a stretcher in an "H" form. This was quite common when chairs of this style were originally made as it both allowed the frame maker to exhibit wood turning skills by matching the rope twist pattern evenly on all of the separate elements that make up the frame as well as offering a substantial amount of structural support and durability. The beauty of the gleaming walnut would have been quite evident in a room illuminated by a fire burning and lighted candles as the dancing flames reflected off of the surface of the frames with their shaped profile. This same effect is evident today in the play of light and shadow across the arms and legs and the broad planes of the upholstered seats and backs of each chair. Please notice the manner in which the twist pattern is set off by simple blocks of timber providing a sense of contrast and variety. Also note that the proportion changes from the front to the back legs in order to accommodate the stretcher bar located just beneath the seat. This horizontal stretcher is an important decorative element of each chair and is repeated by the stretcher bar underneath the chair that forms the cross-bar of the "H" stretcher that connects the four legs. While today we prize the rather contemporary aspect of the chair frame it was the ability to showcase large areas of sumptuous fabric that made these chairs quite desirable. The modern woven fabric covering these chairs possesses a soft and luxurious feel with a subtle pattern. In keeping with the chairs Italian origin the seat and back are outlined with boldly scaled nail heads that complement the overall appearance. These chairs were always designed to be seen from all directions and that is why they present such a pleasing aspect when viewed from all angles. Their sculptural presence combined with their comfort enable them to be used with ease in a wide variety of interiors.

Dimensions:
Height: 35.5 in (90.17 cm)Width: 26 in (66.04 cm)Depth: 27 in (68.58 cm)
Sold As:
Set of 2
Style:
Renaissance (In the Style Of)
Materials and Techniques:
Chenille,Walnut,Turned
Place of Origin:
Italy
Period:
19th Century
Date of Manufacture:
circa 1875
Condition:
Wear consistent with age and use.
Seller Location:
Houston, TX
Reference Number:
Seller: EEJ3691stDibs: LU8668866531