12: Western European Furniture of the Baroque and Rococo Periods

Armchair

Late 17th century

Italy

157x83x74 cm

Gilded wood with embroidered velvet

This armchair with a tall straight back decorated with female heads and a central cartouche was made in Italy, the cradle of the Baroque style. It has volute-shaped arms and curved legs. The upholstered insets on the back and seat are embroidered with silver and gold thread on a pink background. The ornament in the embroidery matches the general structure of the piece and in combination with the gilded carving, the pink velvet and embroidery creates a fine monumental effect. Such armchairs would have stood in Italian palazzi alongside console tables with elaborated gilded carving against a background of marble walls.