Armchair (chaise à bras, pair with 1975.1.2000)
Unknown Artist
16th century, second half (woodwork), 16th or 17th century (textiles)
Medium
Walnut, turned and carved; dark blue silk cut velvet with embroidery.
Dimensions
H. 103 cm, W. 59.5 cm, D. 56.5 cm; back: 27 x 63 cm, seat: 47 x 62.5 cm.
Classification
Textiles-Velvets|Woodwork-Furniture
Culture
French, Italian or Spanish
Department
Robert Lehman Collection
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Robert Lehman Collection, 1975
Accession Number
1975.1.2001
Art Historical Context
This elegant 16th-century armchair, known as a *chaise à bras*, the opulent furniture of Renaissance Europe, likely crafted in France, Italy, or Spain. Its walnut frame, turned and intricately carved in the second half of the 1500s, features a sturdy yet graceful form with a height of 103 cm designed for comfort in grand interiors. Paired with another in the collection (1975.1.2000), it reflects the era's emphasis on symmetrical, functional luxury for elite households. The seat and back are upholstered in dark blue silk cut velvet, embroidered and possibly dating to the 16th or 17th century, ...