18 Monumental Antique Italian Renaissance Figural Mahogany Leather Dining Chairs

Description

Exceedingly Rare Italian Renaissance Revival style high back mahogany dining chairs, circa 1850-1870s. Each chair is hand carved with an arched and scrolled high back centered by a scalloped shell. The sides showcase figural high relief maidens mirrored below North Wind faces at the ear. Includes acanthus and foliate motifs throughout. Upholstered in a brown top grain leather. Lower aprons feature a carved Guard at the center between an S scrolled Egg and Dart molding and floral medallions at the corners. The chairs are supported by robust acanthus carved baluster turned legs at the front leading to beaded feet.

Includes 16 dining side chairs and two married Victorian arm chairs with Northwind face carved crowns, figural lion motifs, paw feet and matching upholstery. A truly exquisite set with unparalleled workmanship. The perfect statement for a grand dining room or great room.

The 16 side chairs were used in Crocodile Dundee II. They were in the mob boss's house, where the kidnapped woman, Linda Kozlowski was sitting.

Italian Renaissance Revival style, also known as "Neo-Renaissance" was popular during the last quarter of the 19th century. The style is inspired by early 16th-century Italian Renaissance architecture, especially from palazzos in cities like Rome, Venice, and Florence.

The North Wind Face is a design that became popular in England in the 18th and 19th century as whimsical furniture began to sweep through towns as it made its way across the Atlantic. The North Wind face is said to be seen whispering from the back of chairs as it blows wooden tendrils of wind from its mouth.

Condition

Good antique condition, wear and distressing commensurate with age and use, light marking / creasing to leather.

Dimensions

21.5" x 24" x 52.5"h, seat 21.5"; arms 27.5" x 29" x 48.5"h, seat 21.5"