SOLD - A Swedish Gustavian style painted wood bench from the late 19th century with lift-top, fluted apron, carved rosettes and cylindrical tapering legs. Created in Sweden during the last quarter of the 19th century, this painted bench features a rectangular hinged seat with a used upholstery that is in fair condition. This seat conveniently opens up to reveal a small storage space that would be ideal to store music scores should one use this piece as a piano bench. The apron is carved on all sides with fluted motifs while the ensemble is raised on four cylindrical tapering fluted and reeded legs topped with carved rosettes on the knees. The bench is painted in a soft color typical of the Swedish taste for light palettes aiming at brightening the rooms during the dark winters of Scandinavia.
The Gustavian style takes its roots in the Louis XVI era. Swedish King Gustav III resided in 1771 in Paris, at the beginning stages of the Louis XVI style. There, he was inspired by French art and fashion. With that in his luggage, he had a strong desire to introduce something similar in Sweden. The country had fine craftsmen with high quality craftsmanship, who produced a simple style with harmonious aesthetics. The Gustavian style was born and has been in vogue ever since. It is incredibly popular, especially in England but also in France and in the USA. Price and age are of course inextricably linked, the older and rarer the higher the price!
With its elegant lines and nicely carved décor, this Swedish Gustavian style bench circa 1880 will bring a touch of Classical elegance to any home, whether placed in a living room or bedroom.
Place of Origin: Sweden
Period: 19th Century
Dimensions: 43.5"W x 16"D x 20"H
Inventory Number: XX135
Price: $3,450