Armchair - Oak - Eiken, maskerface, Italy

Rare monumental Savonarola (X-) chair in solid oak, Italy, circa 1870–1900 – deeply hand-carved Renaissance Revival carving with anthropomorphic mask heads, original patina, unrestored

Rare and monumental Savonarola chair (X-chair), crafted in solid oak lathwood, probably Italy, dated to the late 19th century (circa 1870–1900).

It is a powerful Renaissance Revival execution, recognizable by its heavy proportions, the X-shaped construction, and the exceptionally deep hand-carved decorative carving.

The chair is richly decorated with anthropomorphic mask heads, floral and scroll motifs, including expressive faces on the arm and cross joints — a detail that is rarely found on Savonarola chairs and this specimen clearly rises above the average.

Fully finished in solid wood (no veneer), with original patina and clear signs of aging that contribute to the authentic character. The construction is sturdy and stable.
Condition
Good, original condition for its age.

One of the small carved masks is missing a small, old detail on the lower part (visible in the photos). This concerns a historical loss, consistent with age and use. In addition, normal signs of use, slight shrinkage cracks, and surface wear typical for furniture of this age.

Not restored.
Style & period
Type: Savonarola / X-chair
Style: Renaissance Revival / Historicism
Period: Late 19th century (c. 1870–1900)
Origin: Italy (probably)
Material
solid wood
Hand-carved decoration
No veneer.

Details
Rare edition with busts / masks
Monumental appearance
Original patina
Collectible and decorative
Suitable for a representative interior, study, or a collection of historic seating furniture.


Carefully packed for transport. International shipping available.