19th Century Baroque Chair Heraldic Emblem, Spain

Spectacular late baroque style chair, made of wood and with a seat upholstered with floral embroidery. The soft colors of the embroidery complement the wood finish. Its structure is robust, with curved front legs, known as “cabriole legs,” ending in ornate feet that give it stability and a decorative addition. The rear ones are straight, towards the large backrest or shovel.

The high back of the chair features a cut-out design that is characteristic of the baroque, with curved shapes. The legs are joined by a turned shell and under the seat there is a small skirt as an ornament. The aged look of the off-white polychrome adds a rustic charm to the design. Gold details that follow the contour of the structure. This chair is a clear example of highly crafted furniture, with details that reflect a strong sense of baroque aesthetics.

Also reminiscent of the English Chippendale style. This style of furniture is named after Thomas Chippendale (1718 – 1779), one of the great cabinetmakers of English origin. In short, it is a mix between Rococo, Neoclassical and Baroque with certain nuances of Eastern influence. It is an elegant, sophisticated and majestic style. It is characterized by the prominence of wood, especially noble woods, which were usually linked to the use of high-quality and usually printed textiles (curtains, carpets, upholstery…), where oriental motifs and scenes were essential. The curved legs are one of the hallmarks.

The shield located at the top of the backrest could suggest a ceremonial function or noble origin. The reading would be: gules border loaded with eight gold blades. In a field of gold, a sinple tree, a terraced tree, and a white greyhound at its trunk. Stamped shield with crown. The Calatrava cross appears in the upper half of the shield.

The Calatrava Cross is a symbol used by the Order of Calatrava. It consists of a Greek cross (formerly it was Latin) with four equal arms, gules and flordelisada (with fleurs-de-lis at the ends of the arms). This cross appears on numerous shields and flags, such as that of the town of Fitero Navarra, where the order was founded, and in other towns in Campo de Calatrava, a region in the province of Ciudad Real that belonged to the Order of its name. It is also found in old Cantabrian mansions and on the coat of arms of some private families such as the Segovia or the Bascuñana.

Style: Late Baroque
Materials: Wood
Period: 18th century
Country of origin: Spain
Good condition according to its age and use
Overall dimensions: 127 x 60 x 40 cm.
Seat height: 40 cm.