A pair of Swedish Gustavian style painted wood tub chairs from the late 19th century, with curving backs, carved campanula friezes and waterleaf motifs. Created in Sweden during the last decade of the 19th century, each of this pair of tub chairs captures our attention with its Neoclassical lines and delicately carved motifs. A curving back comes to rest on a rectangular seat which is ready, like the back for reupholstery. The apron is adorned with a delicate campanula frieze running on three sides. Each chair is raised on two cylindrical tapering legs in the front, carved with waterleaves and two saber legs in the back. They are all accented with carved rosettes on the knees and are 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.
With their elegant Gustavian style lines and skillfully carved motifs, this pair of Swedish tub chairs circa 1890 will bring a touch of Classical elegance to any home!
Place of Origin: Sweden
Period: 19th Century
Dimensions: 23.25"W x 26.25"D x 31"H. Seat Height: 18"
Inventory Number: XX26
Price: $6,500