Early 19th Century Pair of Black Painted Klismos Armchairs

A rare and unusual pair of black painted ('ebonised') armchairs, of exaggerated 'Klismos' form (three pairs of matching side chairs available separately). England, circa 1810.

Why we like them

This model is one of the most elegant and unusual chairs of the Regency period that we have handled. The distinctive curve of their sabre legs and the intricate pattern of their backs is smartly balanced by the delicate thinness and refinement of the lines. Recovered in beautiful Italian linen, these armchairs will be a very smart accent in a classical, eclectic or modern interior.

Design

These handsome chairs, conceived in the Grecian manner, allude to Arcadia with their curved tablet backs, enriched with exquisite brass ornaments. Their distinctive, highly unusual profile with boldly curved legs and backs, is inspired by ancient Greek 'Klismos' chairs, often depicted on Attic pottery starting from circa 400BC. This design was promoted by the connoisseur-designer Thomas Hope (d. 1842) and popularised through the guide to his London mansion, Household Furniture and Interior Decoration, published in London in 1807.

Dimensions

Height: 33 in / 84 cm
Width: 22 in / 56 cm
Depth: 23.5 in / 59 cm
Seat height: 17.5 in / 44.5 cm

Condition

Fine antique condition, sturdy and stable, recently recovered in Italian linen and ready to use.