Chair - Wood - Savonarola throne chair

Antique Anglo-Indian Savonarola Throne Chair with Leg/Mother-of-Pearl Inlay – ca. 1900.

Magnificent antique Anglo-Indian Savonarola throne chair (also known as X-frame or curule chair) from the late 19th century or early 20th century. This stately piece is a sublime example of the refined, luxurious craftsmanship from British India (often attributed to the Hoshiarpur region) and is executed in the characteristic Mughal and Eastern style.

The chair is crafted from a handsome dark hardwood (often shisham or rosewood) and is almost everywhere richly inlaid with finely cut foliate scrolls and geometric patterns. Both the arching backrest and the central panel are richly inlaid with geometric stars and patterns of authentic inlaid leg or mother-of-pearl. The backrest also features elegantly carved Eastern calligraphy and patterns.
On the rear, the original hand-carved mounting marks of the craftsman are visible on the construction (including the number '17'), which further underscores the authenticity of this historic piece of furniture.

Condition report:
The chair is in a beautiful, sturdy, and authentic antique state. The rich carving and inlay on the seat and backrest are remarkably well preserved and virtually intact. The piece shows a lovely patina of age with normal, age-related signs of wear (superficial gloss wear on the varnish/stain at the edges and light scratches on the untreated back side of the back panel). No major structural cracks in the load-bearing frame.

Note: At the rear, near the hinge work, a few small wooden decorative caps over the connecting pins are missing (see detail photo). This does not affect the sturdiness of the structure at all.

Exact dimensions:
Total height: approx. 108.5 cm
Seat height: approx. 50 cm
Total width (including armrests): approx. 64.5 cm
Seat width: approx. 40.5 cm
Total depth: approx. 58.5 cm
Seat depth: approx. 37.5 cm

Delivery / Shipping
PLEASE NOTE: This lot can only be picked up!
Due to its size, the fragility of the antique woodcarving, and the fact that the chair is large and heavy, this item will absolutely not be shipped. Please take this into account when arranging pickup and ensure suitable transportation. Pickup is available by appointment.