A gorgeous painted Venetian settee from Italy c.1875

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A gorgeous painted Venetian settee from Italy c.1875

About the Item

A splendid Venetian settee with a gorgeous painted and decorated finish including gilded accents from Italy c.1875. Please look at the back of the settee where the characteristic carved extravagance is to be seen. The top of the crest rail features carving in the style first created during the Baroque. The amazing ruffled edges with their sensuous undulating quality were designed to take advantage of the light from candles, torches and fireplaces whose organic quality embodied movement and change. This was a perfect metaphor for Venetian life as the residents of the islands in the lagoon were constantly subjected to the vagaries of the weather and changes in the surrounding water. The sparkle of sunlight was dazzling on the water and these reflections were a daily part of life along the waterfront and the interior canals. Notice how each of the three sections of the back are as open as possible to create an impression of lightness and elegance, both aspects of the best of Venetian furniture. The carving at the crest rails is pierced all the way through and centred on open oval medallions bordered with high relief carving. Look at how the centre section is carved in a symmetrical manner but the left and right sections are asymmetrical and lean toward the centre as though swept by a wave or a strong wind. There are four vertical supports that frame the back and reach all the way from the top to the floor and have an elegant curve that is designed to accommodate with ease and comfort anyone who is seated. Between these are the three splats that have a beautiful shape and are situated directly beneath the carving on the crest rail. All of these elements are structural but enhanced with a beautiful painted design of lush floral blossoms along with gilding that provides a lovely gleam. Both arms have a flat and wide profile with the bold downward facing scroll seen on eighteenth century Venetian seating furniture visible at the front end. The rectangular seat is divided into three sections as well and fitted with the original cane. This of course was never seen as there was always a cushion fashioned from a divinely luxurious fabric that enhanced the comfort of the settee. This fabric would have been chosen to complement the colour of the settee and the decoration of the entire room within which it was placed. The four bold front legs all possess a strong curve with the two outer legs set at a fourty five degree angle . These legs also have complementary painted decoration of a floral nature that is also seen across the apron beneath the seat. All eight of the legs are joined by three sets of stretchers that provide essential structural support but designed to continue the dramatic sculptural lines of the entire settee. This attention to both the enchanting quality of the overall design along with a keen understanding of the practicalities necessary for longevity is a component of superior craftsmanship. This settee continues to evoke the unique splendour of eighteenth century Venetian life where the furnishings in an interior were assembled to amaze and delight during festive evenings.

Dimensions:
Height: 45.5 in (115.57 cm)Width: 63 in (160.02 cm)Depth: 26 in (66.04 cm)
Materials and Techniques:
Carved,Gilt,Painted
Place of Origin:
Italy
Period:
19th Century
Date of Manufacture:
c.1875
Condition:
Seller Location:
Houston, TX
Reference Number:
Seller: BJ180A1stDibs: U1104188668456