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Classical Roman Side Chairs

CLASSICAL ROMAN STYLE

During Mount Vesuvius’ eruption in 79 A.D., Pompeii and Herculaneum in today’s Italy were preserved as they were on the day of their destruction. Particularly at Herculaneum, furnishings were carbonized beneath volcanic ash. This was pivotal to understanding how Classical Roman furniture was designed. Archaeological investigations and printed reproductions of discoveries would influence styles evoking this ancient civilization, from the Renaissance to neoclassicism.

While knowledge of Classical Roman furniture comes from rare surviving pieces, it is also derived from frescoes and sculptures portraying Roman life. Much of Roman art, architecture and design was informed by Greece — Roman architect, military engineer and writer Marcus Vitruvius Pollio, whose timeless De architectura is taught in contemporary architecture classes and pays tribute to classical architecture, visited Greece while working under Julius Caesar and admired the country’s architectural developments. The Roman solium references the Greek thronos, a stately chair of honor with an upright form and footstool. As the Roman Empire spread across Europe and into North Africa and Western Asia, the expansion of trade for silver, silk, marble and wood allowed for more luxurious designs.

Classical Roman furniture was made from bronze, wood and stone — in particular, marble — with ornate touches like tortoiseshell veneers, bone and glass inlays and claw feet. Ornaments depicting lion heads and mythological figures were sculpted from silver, bronze and ivory. Compared to the decorative attention given to the mosaic floors and wall paintings, however, furniture for even a wealthy house was minimal. It focused on the necessities for guests arriving for both socializing and business and the rooms housing family, relatives and enslaved people.

The triclinium dining room had banquet couches, items so prized they were sometimes interred with the deceased. Tall bronze or terracotta candelabras held oil lamps for lighting. Carved marble tables reflected status, while the lararium home shrine demonstrated faith.

Find a collection of Classical Roman decorative objects, tables, seating and other furniture on 1stDibs.

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Style: Classical Roman
Original Vintage Wooden Thonet Design Side Chair Model 13
By Thonet
Located in Harderwijk, NL
This stunning vintage side chair is a true eye-catcher that will enhance almost any interior. This original Thonet design chair features a design from the 1930s and is crafted from b...
Category

20th Century Classical Roman Side Chairs

Materials

Wood

Original Vintage Wooden Thonet Design Side Chair Model 13
Original Vintage Wooden Thonet Design Side Chair Model 13

Original Vintage Wooden Thonet Design Side Chair Model 13

Sheepskin Leather Desk / Side Chair
Located in Harderwijk, NL
Offered here is this stylish and comfortable sheepskin leather desk or side chair, featuring beautiful natural tones. With its clean finish and timeless, elegant design, this chair...
Category

20th Century Classical Roman Side Chairs

Materials

Leather, Sheepskin

Sheepskin Leather Desk / Side Chair
Sheepskin Leather Desk / Side Chair

Sheepskin Leather Desk / Side Chair

18th Century Venetian Throne Chair
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Hand-carved 18th Century giltwood newly-upholstered in Rubelli metal silk fabric.
Category

18th Century Italian Antique Classical Roman Side Chairs

Materials

Giltwood

18th Century Venetian Throne Chair
18th Century Venetian Throne Chair

18th Century Venetian Throne Chair

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Classical Roman side chairs for sale on 1stDibs.

Find a broad range of unique Classical Roman side chairs for sale on 1stDibs. Many of these items were first offered in the 18th Century and Earlier, but contemporary artisans have continued to produce works inspired by this style. If you’re looking to add vintage side chairs created in this style to your space, the works available on 1stDibs include seating and other home furnishings, frequently crafted with giltwood, wood and other materials. If you’re shopping for used Classical Roman side chairs made in a specific country, there are Europe, and Italy pieces for sale on 1stDibs. It’s true that these talented designers have at times inspired knockoffs, but our experienced specialists have partnered with only top vetted sellers to offer authentic pieces that come with a buyer protection guarantee. Prices for side chairs differ depending upon multiple factors, including designer, materials, construction methods, condition and provenance. On 1stDibs, the price for these items starts at $9,500 and tops out at $9,500 while the average work can sell for $9,500.

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