M. Markley Antiques
281.748.2266

Antique Chairs - Item 4123
8 Gothic Dining Chairs with Heraldic Motifs

(scroll down for additional photos)
 

Item 4123	8 Gothic Dining Chairs
Dimensions	Width 17¾, Height 39½, Depth 18 (in inches) 19½ inches from floor to top of seating surface
Wood	Oak
Country	France
Date	Circa 1900
Description	This outstanding set of 8 gothic style, solid oak chairs, from France, is characterized by the charming carved lions at the top of the backs. Some of the lions have a heraldic shield in front of their seated bodies, and some are facing distinct directions, all of which authenticates the singular wit and virtuosity of their hand carving. As all of our offerings, they are extremely sturdy, and none wobble or have loose joints. The upholstery is not our taste, but is in good condition (no holes, tears or stains),and the springs and padding are ready for your new fabric. The legs are beveled in their length, and the front stretcher features an incised flower on either side. What attracted us to these chairs was that lions, heraldic, coats of arms and crest motifs are quite unusual, in antiques at this price. Usually, furniture like this was made for the aristocracy who wanted to display their specific family credentials in coat of arms or other heraldic forms, for all to see. When their furniture becomes available, the obvious provenance makes it very expensive, as the buyers enjoy the prestige and distinction of displaying both their financial ability to purchase it and good taste in their ownership. The motifs on these chairs, not being specific to a  particular family, make them a special find for the buyer who favors the magic and pageantry most of us associate with the middle ages, and knights and chivalry.
Reference	Thirion, Jacques, Le Mobilier du Moyen Age et de la Renaissance en France (Editions Faton, Dijon, 1998); Viollet-le-Duc, Eugène, Le Mobilier Médiéval (Georges Bernage, editor) (Editions Heimdal, 2003)
Uses	This set of eight chairs would complement an oak dining table such as Item #9451.